FAO highlights rapid aquaculture growth in Africa

AFRICA – Aquaculture is expanding faster in Africa than in any other region globally, but the sector still accounts for only 18% of the continent’s aquatic animal production, highlighting significant opportunities for investment in fish farming, aquafeed and aquaculture value chains, according to new data released by the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO).

The findings, published in the regional overview of FAO’s State of World Fisheries and Aquaculture 2026 report, show that Africa produced 13.4 million tonnes of aquatic animals in 2024, with capture fisheries contributing 82% and aquaculture accounting for the remaining 18%.

Despite relatively low fish availability compared to other regions, aquatic foods remain a critical source of nutrition across the continent, providing 19% of animal protein consumption, the second-highest share globally. 

Per capita availability is approximately 9 kg annually.

FAO noted that marine fisheries continue to dominate overall production, while inland fisheries remain crucial for food security and employment, particularly in rural and landlocked countries. 

Aquaculture, meanwhile, is emerging as an increasingly important source of fish supply as demand rises.

The sector supports approximately 6.1 million people in primary production activities, with inland fisheries accounting for 54% of employment.

Egypt remains Africa’s dominant aquaculture producer, generating about 1.6 million tonnes of farmed aquatic animals in 2024. 

Nigeria ranked second with 440,700 tonnes, followed by Uganda with 329,000 tonnes, Ghana with 121,800 tonnes and Zambia with 89,000 tonnes. 

Together, the five countries account for nearly 90% of the continent’s aquaculture production.

Aquafeed demand expected to rise

The rapid growth of aquaculture is expected to increase demand for commercial aquafeeds, improved fish genetics, health management solutions and modern farming technologies across the continent.

FAO noted that although aquaculture currently accounts for a relatively small share of total fish production, it has significant potential to help meet the growing demand for aquatic foods as Africa’s population continues to expand.

The report warns, however, that rapid population growth is limiting gains in fish availability. 

While total domestic production has increased by 13%, including substantial contributions from aquaculture, per capita availability is projected to decline by 2034 unless production growth accelerates further.

Imports continue to play an important role in balancing supply and demand. FAO estimates that one-third of aquatic food availability in Africa comes from imports. 

In 2024, the continent imported 4 million tonnes of aquatic animal products valued at US$5.9 billion, while exports reached 3 million tonnes, valued at US$8.4 billion.

With fish consumption expected to rise in line with population growth, FAO believes that continued investment in aquaculture production, feed manufacturing, and fish health systems will be essential.

It will help to strengthen food security, create jobs, and reduce Africa’s dependence on imported seafood products.

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