Socio-cultural dynamics shaping the potential of aquaculture to deliver development outcomes

Abstract

There is growing appreciation of the role of aquaculture in diversifying livelihoods of the poor. However, prevailing cultural norms and values, and social relations often influence its development outcomes, which we explore in this study. Socio-cultural dynamics affect the capacity of resource-poor and marginalized groups for the adoption and retention of aquaculture technologies. Gender norms and gender division of labour in a given community not only influence whether men or women participate in aquaculture but also shape their differential access to resources and position in decision-making, with knock-on effect for aquaculture productivity. Ethnic and cultural norms of collectivism, particularly in traditional fishing communities, support aquaculture efforts, but these are often overlooked by many development endeavours. Improved productivity does not necessarily translate into enhanced income, food and nutrition security. In many areas, benefits for women are lower despite their more active participation in aquaculture operations, post-harvest processing and marketing compared to men. Local power relations may limit access to land and water resources as well as inputs and services by the poor, restricting more equitable distribution of income from aquaculture. Nutritional outcome from aquaculture largely depends on preferences and acceptability of fish as a food and local customs regarding its preparation, preservation, cooking and distribution. Aquaculture interventions that take resource base and socio-cultural contexts into account are crucial for realizing increased income, food and nutrition benefits sustainably.