By Sandra Blessing
Lake Basin Development Authority (LBDA) has adopted innovative technologies to strengthen its aquaculture value chain in the 21 fish ponds and a modern fingerlings hatchery plant (Recirculating Aquaculture System—RAS).
LBDA Managing Director Wycliff Ochiaga said that with the adoption of the innovation, they expect to boost fingerlings production to between 2 million and 4 million fingerlings per month.
He said they have adopted advanced aerator systems in the fish ponds to ensure optimal dissolved oxygen levels, which are crucial for healthy fish growth, improved feed efficiency, and reduced mortality.
“This technology not only boosts fish productivity but also aligns with our commitment to sustainable aquaculture, food security, and economic empowerment to communities along the Lake Basin region,” he said.
He explained that the technology of aeration in fish ponds involves mechanical or natural systems that increase the amount of dissolved oxygen (DO) in the water—essential for fish health, feed efficiency, and waste breakdown.
Ochiaga said the purpose of aeration is to maintain optimal oxygen levels:
“Fish require oxygen to survive, grow, and reproduce. Prevents fish kills, especially in warm weather or high-density ponds where oxygen can drop rapidly. Improves water quality: Oxygen supports beneficial bacteria that break down waste (ammonia, nitrites). Enhances productivity: Higher DO means better feed conversion and faster growth,” he said.
The MD said the core components of aeration technology include an air supply system through solar-powered blowers/pumps, a distribution system using pipes and tubing to carry air, and diffusers or mechanical devices to introduce air into the water.
Others include fine bubble diffusers to release micro-bubbles for better oxygen transfer, paddle wheel aerators to agitate the water surface to absorb oxygen, venturi injectors to mix air and water using pressure, and fountains and propeller aerators to create turbulence that draws in oxygen.
The MD said that for power sources, they use solar power, which is eco-friendly and ideal for off-grid areas.
“We have integration in the aquaculture value chain to support high-yield fish farming, reduce mortality and losses, improve product quality for the market, and increase the efficiency of other systems like feeding and water reuse,” he said.
