HArnessing Multi-Stakeholders Involvement in Result Based Aquaculture (HASIRA) Extension Service in Tanzania

1. Introduction

Aquaculture is practiced in most African countries (Sobo, 2006). In Tanzania the agriculture sector (which includes aquaculture) is known for employing more than 70% of the total population; contributing about 25% to the Gross Domestic Product (GDP); bringing about 66% of the foreign exchange; and providing raw materials for local industries (URT, 2008). The sector also feeds the nation and is the source of livelihoods to most rural communities in the country. Despite the great potential of agriculture in Tanzania, the sector is characterised by low productivity; under-utilization of the available land, water and human resources; lack of agricultural support services; weak research-extension-farmer linkages among others (URT, 2008; Akinbile & Alabi, 2011). The situation has to a great extent limited the agricultural transformation strategies which have been implemented over the years. This has equally resulted into high poverty levels among rural and farming communities in the country.