Nigerian agri-tech company Vetsark has been appointed as an official service provider for the FISH4ACP Catfish Cluster Upgrading Programme, a major aquaculture development initiative aimed at transforming catfish farming across Nigeria.
Over the next year, Vetsark will work directly with local catfish farmers to strengthen production systems, build sustainable farmer cooperatives, and improve market access for small- and medium-scale producers.
The goal is to modernize Nigeria’s catfish industry while enhancing livelihoods and promoting sustainable aquaculture practices.
The FISH4ACP programme is implemented by the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) of the United Nations, with funding from the European Union’s Directorate-General for International Partnerships and Germany’s Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ). The initiative is coordinated through the Organization of African, Caribbean and Pacific States (OACPS) Secretariat.
A Strategic Push for Aquaculture Sustainability and Market Access
According to Vetsark, their role will focus on four key areas: strengthening farmer clusters, delivering practical training and mentorship, improving access to markets, and boosting productivity through sustainable farming practices.
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“This appointment reflects a growing recognition of the importance of digital solutions and grassroots innovation in driving food security and economic inclusion,” said a spokesperson for Vetsark. “We are thrilled to support farmers and contribute to the modernization of Nigeria’s aquaculture sector.”
Nigeria is one of Africa’s largest producers of catfish, but the industry faces persistent challenges including fragmented supply chains, limited technical knowledge among farmers, and weak access to international markets.
By organizing farmers into stronger clusters and providing them with capacity-building resources, the programme aims to increase efficiency, promote environmentally friendly practices, and improve income generation across the sector.
The programme will also help to bridge the gender and youth gaps in aquaculture by involving women and young entrepreneurs in cluster strengthening and value chain development.
As the implementation phase begins, Vetsark plans to deploy field teams across selected regions, leveraging technology and local partnerships to deliver impact.
“This is not just about boosting production,” the company noted. “It’s about creating systems that empower farmers long-term and open up new opportunities in both local and export markets.”
FAO officials have praised Nigeria’s inclusion in the FISH4ACP programme, citing the country’s potential to become a regional aquaculture leader if supported with the right policy, technology, and market interventions.
