Challenges of women involved in fishing activities (a case study of Otuocha, Anambra State, Nigeria): A SWOT analysis

Abstract

The study was focused on the challenges of women involved in fishing activities in Otuocha community, Anambra-East Local Government Area, Anambra state, Nigeria. The study examined the strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and threats of the stated women and analysed their roles and operations. Data collection was through the administration of 60 structured questionnaire and scheduled interview. Data were analyzed using simple percentages, tables and frequency while the SWOT analysis was employed in the deduction of the strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and threats. The study revealed their challenges to be financial, lack of basic amenities, health issues, fluctuating sales and demand, land tenure system, low literacy and training, high indebtedness, family responsibilities and gender inequality. Their strengths were: Population of the women, skills and experience, diversity of fishes in Otuocha community, location of natural water body, Omambala river and low production cost in the study area. However, their opportunities were; producers of successors, presence of fisheries organizations, large market for the fish, creation of value-added fish products, and geographical location of the community market. Their threats were: Competition from other women fisherfolks, lack of modern processing equipment, cultural/traditional forces limiting women from active fishing and seasonal flooding. Availability of loan by financial institutions is therefore recommended to enable women acquire needed facilities. Awareness should be created on gender issues affecting fishing activities of women in Otuocha. There should be periodic training and workshop for the women fisherfolks, there should be formation and strengthening of women's organizations on professionalization of both harvest and post- harvest activities. Women should be involved in decision making in all aspects of fish value chain processes.