Youth Fish/Poultry Farm Estate Projects

From 2006 to 2012, Aqua-Green Integrated Farming Support Initiative (AGI), in collaboration with the Rivers State Government, executed the Youth Fish/Poultry Farm Estate Projects. This large-scale initiative aimed to address unemployment among youth and women in Rivers State by equipping them with the skills and resources to establish sustainable fish and poultry farming enterprises.

AGI established aquaculture and poultry farming estates in 12 local government areas, introducing participants to modern farming techniques and infrastructure. These estates were equipped with collapsible tarpaulin ponds, advanced hatcheries, and climate-controlled poultry houses. The integrated farming systems allowed participants to diversify their production, maximizing profitability and minimizing risk.

Over 1,000 youth and women received comprehensive training in fish breeding, feed formulation, poultry management, and disease prevention. AGI also included business management modules, teaching participants how to develop financial plans, maintain records, and access markets effectively.
Each participant was provided with startup resources, including fingerlings, chicks, feed, and farming tools, enabling them to begin operations immediately after training. AGI further facilitated the formation of cooperatives, allowing participants to pool resources, share knowledge, and negotiate better prices for their products.
The project also emphasized market access by linking participants to buyers and distributors within the region. AGI organized trade fairs and introduced participants to larger cooperatives and export markets, ensuring a reliable demand for their products.
By the end of the project, participants had successfully established profitable fish and poultry farming businesses, creating employment opportunities and improving food security in their communities. This initiative stands as a testament to AGI’s commitment to rural development and youth empowerment.

Key Features:

Integrated Farming Systems: Combined aquaculture and poultry farming to diversify income streams.
Startup Resources: Distribution of fingerlings, chicks, feed, and equipment to kickstart operations.
Comprehensive Training: Workshops on farming techniques, disease control, and business management.
Cooperative Formation: Empowered participants to collaborate for shared resources and better market access.
Market Access: Facilitated connections with buyers and distributors for reliable income streams.

The Youth Fish/Poultry Farm Estate Projects showcased AGI’s ability to create scalable, impactful programs that drive economic empowerment and sustainable agriculture in rural communities.