African Fisheries Science (Fisheries/Aquatic) | 26 January 2007
Youth Empowerment through Aquaculture Entrepreneurship Training in East African Towns of Madagascar: A Longitudinal Study on Performance and Community Engagement
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Abstract
Youth empowerment through aquaculture entrepreneurship training has been identified as a potential pathway to economic development in rural communities of East Africa. In Madagascar, where fisheries and aquaculture are significant sectors, this study aims to evaluate the long-term impact of such interventions on both individual performance and community engagement. A longitudinal study design was employed, with data collected from participants through surveys and interviews conducted annually from to . Key variables analysed include income growth, project sustainability, and community feedback on training effectiveness. Statistical models were used to account for potential confounders. Findings indicated that aquaculture entrepreneurs experienced a significant increase in annual incomes of up to $500 per household compared to baseline levels (95% CI: $450-$550). Community engagement scores improved by 20% over the decade, with strong correlations observed between training quality and community support. This study provides robust evidence supporting the long-term benefits of aquaculture entrepreneurship training in promoting sustainable livelihoods and enhancing community welfare. Future research should explore mechanisms to scale these interventions effectively across diverse contexts. Policy recommendations include integrating aquaculture entrepreneurship programmes into formal education curricula and fostering partnerships with local communities for collective governance of aquatic resources.