Revolutionizing Tilapia Welfare in Egypt: ESR and FAI Launch Groundbreaking Project

Recent findings have underscored the lack of awareness around tilapia welfare in Egypt, a leading tilapia producer in Africa. This has sparked a collaborative effort between the Egyptian Society for Research (ESR) and FAI Farms to launch the Tilapia Welfare Project, aimed at educating Egyptian producers on the benefits of improved fish welfare, not only for the fish but for their own economic gain as well.

Initiating Change in Fish Farming Practices

Wasseem Emam, the visionary behind ESR, highlighted the critical need for Egypt to align with international fish welfare standards to tap into new markets effectively. Through partnership with FAI, they aim to introduce the Tilapia Welfare App among farmers, a tool designed for easy, mobile-based welfare assessment. This initiative promises to enhance fish performance, health, and overall welfare, potentially setting a new standard for fish farming across Egypt and possibly Africa.

Empowering Local Farmers with Knowledge and Tools

Dr. Mahmoud Eltholth of Royal Holloway University, London, is among those actively participating in the project. Having recently completed an online 'train the trainers' event hosted by FAI, Dr. Eltholth plans to disseminate his newfound knowledge on tilapia welfare to local farmers, particularly those operating on a smaller scale. This education-first approach is central to the project's strategy, aiming to elevate the standard of tilapia farming by addressing welfare throughout the production cycle.

Looking Forward: The Project's Prospects and Impact

The Tilapia Welfare Project has not only established a baseline for current production practices but is also setting the stage for significant welfare improvements within the sector. With FAI's expertise and a strong focus on practical, research-backed advice, the project leaders are optimistic about the positive transformations anticipated in the coming years. This collaboration could indeed position Egypt as a leading center for fish welfare knowledge and practice in Africa, benefiting both the economy and the ecosystem.

As this pioneering initiative unfolds, the implications for Egypt's tilapia sector and global aquaculture standards are profound. By marrying technology with traditional farming practices, ESR and FAI are charting a course towards a more sustainable, productive, and ethically responsible fish farming industry.