Sustainable aquaculture practices and their contribution to rural livelihoods and food security: a case study of Chifunabuli district, zambia.

Abstract

<jats:p>Rural communities in developing countries continue to face persistent challenges of food insecurity, poverty, and limited livelihood opportunities. Traditional agricultural systems are increasingly constrained by climate change, land degradation, and declining productivity. In this context, sustainable aquaculture has emerged as a viable strategy for enhancing food security and improving rural livelihoods. This study evaluated the role of sustainable aquaculture practices in Chifunabuli District, Zambia, focusing on their contribution to household income, food security, and employment creation. A mixed-methods approach was adopted involving 100 respondents selected through stratified and purposive sampling. Data were collected using questionnaires, interviews, focus group discussions, observations, and document analysis. The study found a strong positive effect of aquaculture farming on food production, household food security, and rural economic development in Chifunabuli District. The Chi-square test showed a significant relationship between aquaculture farming and improved food production (χ² = 14.06, p = 0.0002), indicating higher food availability among farming households. Results further revealed marked improvements in food security indicators, including increased protein consumption (30% to 75%), dietary diversity (40% to 70%), and reduced hunger periods (35% to 80%) after adoption of aquaculture. The regression analysis showed a strong explanatory power (R² = 0.886), with aquaculture farming significantly predicting income generation and employment (β = 0.610, p &lt; 0.001). Overall, aquaculture emerged as a key driver of improved livelihoods and economic stability in rural households. The study recommends that government and stakeholders strengthen support for aquaculture through improved extension services, access to inputs, and training programs to enhance productivity and sustainability</jats:p>