Shrimp aquaculture in Africa is gaining momentum, with significant strides in Cameroon. While the continent’s shrimp farming is still in its early stages, projects are emerging in Mozambique, Madagascar, Eritrea, Gambia, Guinea, Seychelles, South Africa, and Tanzania.

In Cameroon, the focus is on the native shrimp species Farfantepenaeus notialis. Over the past years, an experimental project led by traditional chief Salomon Madiba Songue and collaborators has shown promising results. The project, supported by French NGO Bleu Cameroun and Concepto Azul, specializes in shrimp aquaculture and biotechnology.

The project began with the establishment of a hatchery close to Kribi, later relocated to a new building belonging to the Institute of Agricultural Research for Development (IRAD) in Kribi. Facing challenges such as the lack of local shrimp aquaculture technicians, the project prioritized training Cameroonian staff.

The breeding process involves maturation and spawning of F. notialis, with the hatchery maintaining optimal conditions such as water temperature and feed. The project successfully controlled all developmental stages, from adult maturation to larval culture, showcasing the potential for F. notialis aquaculture in Cameroon and neighboring countries where the species is native.

The involvement of Cameroonian scientists and university students has transformed the project into a multi-institutional initiative. Specialists in biochemistry are working on improving local feed formulations, while molecular biologists collaborate to prevent diseases using molecular diagnostic tools. Additionally, a breeding program aims to enhance F. notialis growth and disease resistance through gene-assisted selection.

This initiative, initially led by a traditional chief, is gaining support from the Cameroonian government, with expressions of interest from the president and research minister. As marine and freshwater aquaculture development gains political and financial backing, international funding institutions are encouraged to consider supporting similar initiatives across Africa.