Evaluation of Recent Fish Introduction in Al Rahad Turda - North Kordofan State - on Local Communities Development

Abstract

This study evaluated the effects of introducing fish to Al rahad Turda (sill water Body) on the local community in Al Rahad Locality, North Kordofan State, Sudan. The research examined the development of fishermen and fishing activities, the role of market dealers and fish marketing, and patterns of fish consumption. Data were collected through structured questionnaires administered in individual interviews and analysed using statistical package for Social Science (SPSS), frequency and basic descriptive statistics was calculated and Chi-Square test of independency was performed for quetionaire's analysis. The results indicated that the introduction of fish had a significant impact (P<0.05) on fishermen and fishing activities. The number of fishermen increased, with 60% beginning to fish only after the introduction of species such as Tilapia spp, Latus niloticus, and Clarius garbenus. A new fishing area, Samaha, was established and is now utilized by more than half of the fishermen. The introduction of fish generated additional employment opportunities, particularly for young people aged 21-30 and individuals with lower educational attainment. Fishermen’s daily income increased significantly. The square test revealed a significant (p < 0.05) change in most aspects of fishing activity before and after the introduction of fish, except for the type and ownership of fishing crafts (p > 0.05). With the exception of income and fishing seasons (P<0.05), no significant differences were observed in other variables before and after the introduction (P>0.05). Regarding fish consumption, all variables demonstrated significant differences (p < 0.05) before and after fish were supplied in 2010. The findings also indicated that demand for fish became inelastic. Consumers reported improved health, and fishermen reported increased incomes. According to the findings we recommended that; as long as there is extra fish resource in the turda while consumers are complaining from low supply, marketing system should be improved through: conducting study to improve the marketing facilities and conducting study to opening of new markets.