PERFORMANCE, ECOLOGICAL AND ECONOMIC SUSTAINABLITY OF WATER PAN BASED AQUACULTURE IN A KENYAN SEMI ARID LANDSCAPE | PEESWAK-SEAL
Cooperating countries: Kenya, Austria
Coordinating institution: BOKU University
Project coordinator: Dr. Elisabeth Bondar-Kunze
Partner institution: Maasai Mara University
Project duration: 01.07.2026-30.06.2028
Budget: 39.700,00 €
Project summary
The arid and semi-arid landscape of Narok in southwestern Kenya is experiencing unprecedented environmental stress due to climate variability, land use changes, and growing human and livestock populations. The projected increase in extreme weather events directly threatens food security, undermining progress towards UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) 2 (Zero Hunger), 6 (Clean Water and Sanitation), and 13 (Climate Action), as well as national and county development plans. Central to addressing these challenges are water pans, critical water sources that provide vital ecosystem services in this water-scarce region. This project will investigate the ecological dynamics of these pans by generating empirical data on seasonal water quality changes and will introduce and assess the performance of Nile tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus) in this unique environment. Crucially, recognizing that the Maasai community does not traditionally consume fish, the initiative will be introduced through an entrepreneurial lens, framing fish as a cash crop for sale to external markets. This creates a new revenue stream, directly contributing to SDG 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth) by fostering sustainable livelihoods. The water pan-based aquaculture itself represents a low-tech, climate-smart innovation (SDG 9: Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure) that is easily adoptable by pan owners. This culturally intelligent approach facilitates a non-confrontational introduction of a new resource, allowing for cultural acclimatization. The water quality data will inform community-driven management actions to protect this vital resource. Beyond local empowerment, the project enhances international collaboration and knowledge exchange between Kenya and Austria, directly contributing to SDG 17 (Partnerships for the Goals).