A model for growth
Anton Immink and Tim Messeder explain Rural Aquaculture Development’s award-winning approach to empowering Ugandan fish farmers.
Rural Aquaculture Development (RAD) is a novel, value-chain based approach to developing aquaculture production in East Africa using a for-profit business model that supports networks of farmers. It was established to help plug the gap between protein needs in the region and current challenges in scaling aquaculture production; the Food and Agriculture Organisation has highlighted a deficit of up to 75% in fish consumption in this part of the world compared to the global average. The first hub, successfully piloted in the landlocked Rukungiri district in the west of Uganda, serves as a model for wider replication in the region.
Founded by Tim Messeder and Pauson Mpabukire, RAD initiated operations in 2020, establishing its aquaculture venture through pond construction and production. Achieving its first fish sale in early 2022 marked a significant milestone, propelling growth and job creation. By focusing on affordable, smaller tilapia and optimising production processes, RAD has solidified its market position. Strategic partnerships (ThinkAqua, Gatsby Africa and Energy Savings Trust) have strengthened production and service offerings, ensuring wider accessibility of its products. RAD’s pioneering model, which simultaneously cultivates and markets its own tilapia while bolstering the local aquaculture industry, is designed to create clusters of multiple small and medium scale enterprises.
Co-founders Tim and Pauson with visitors from Energy Savings Trust
RAD’s ‘hub’ approach
Unlike traditional fish farming models, RAD takes a holistic approach, acting as a hub (one-stop-shop) for all things aquaculture. Its comprehensive suite of services empowers farmers to overcome the hurdles often associated with starting and maintaining a fish farm.
Here’s how RAD’s model fosters success:
• Hatchery operations: RAD provides high-quality fingerlings sourced from its own hatchery, ensuring a healthy and robust starting point for farmers
• Innovative feeding solutions: RAD offers a unique and sustainable feed option – black soldier fly (BSF) larvae, fed whole. These protein-rich insects provide essential nutrients for fish while promoting waste management within the farming system, and more importantly deliver large cost savings to farmers
• Equipment rental: Acquiring all the necessary equipment upfront can be a major barrier for small-scale farmers. RAD’s equipment rental programme allows farmers to access essential tools without breaking the bank
• Post-harvest “buy-back” support: RAD offers a reliable market for farmers with the buy-back programme, offering farmers a fair price and giving consumers a steady supply of fish. This is only made possible through the selling of small affordable fish which are more accessible for local families while helping to reduce food waste
• Technical assistance: Throughout the farming journey, RAD’s dedicated team offers invaluable training and ongoing support, empowering farmers with the knowledge and confidence to succeed.
Tilapia on plate
RAD’s business model is underpinned by a deep understanding of the local context and the specific challenges faced by smallholder farmers.
By tailoring its services to meet the unique needs of this market segment, RAD has achieved encouraging results. The company’s ability to demonstrate a strong return on investment and measure its social impact has been instrumental in attracting support from investors, collaborators and partners.
As local farmer John Mutaaga puts it: “I would never have managed to grow fish without RAD.”
Building resilience and driving impact
This integrated approach empowers smallholder farmers by addressing their most pressing needs. It fosters a sense of ownership and cultivates self-sufficiency within the wider communities RAD serves.
Farm pond with fingerling net
The results of RAD’s work are evident in the transformed livelihoods of Rukungiri’s farmers. We have several stories of local farmers who have doubled or even tripled their income through significantly increased fish production. A prime example is local farmer Mauda Rutaremwa. After RAD provided her with fish fingerlings, she successfully raised them to market size and sold some of them back to RAD through their buy-back programme. The income generated has enabled her to begin construction on an additional fish pond.
Recognition for innovation: the FoodShot Global Prize
RAD’s commitment to social impact and environmental sustainability has not gone unnoticed. In June 2024 not-for-profit organisation ThinkAqua, a partner of RAD, was proudly awarded a FoodShot Global Prize, recognising the value of the project. Research Lead Alexandra Pounds was a key player in shining a light on the work of RAD. The prize also recognises Alex’s wider research in East Africa, as part of her PhD at the University of Stirling. This international award celebrates innovative solutions that tackle food insecurity and malnutrition while promoting environmental health.
“Winning the FoodShot Global Prize is a tremendous honour,” remarked Tim Messeder, Founder of RAD. “It validates our approach, recognises the power of partnership and serves as a powerful motivator to continue scaling our impact across East Africa.”
Training session
Scaling the model: building a brighter future for East Africa in collaboration with Gatsby Africa
RAD’s vision extends beyond the borders of Rukungiri. With the success of its first hub site (Rukungiri) and a deep understanding of the East African aquaculture landscape, the organisation is poised for expansion. Gatsby Africa, an organisation committed to sector transformation and helping change lives for the better in East Africa, has recently come on board as supportive partners providing funding to solve some production bottlenecks; and, crucially, to develop a set of metrics by which RAD can validate the impact of the hub.
Kenya, Rwanda and Tanzania have been identified as key target countries for expansion, where RAD intends to replicate its success story and empower countless more farmers.
Partnerships: building a sustainable future together
RAD is actively seeking strategic partnerships with investors, technology providers and distribution channels. A prime example of this is RAD’s involvement in the Efficiency for Access Research and Development Fund, where it was one of 11 organisations awarded a share of US $1.7m (£1.3m) to develop clean energy agricultural technologies. RAD is leading a project to create a low-cost, refrigerated cooling box for fish transport and storage in Uganda. This innovation will be a significant step towards reducing food waste within the cold food chain.
Collaborations such as this are enabling RAD to expand its reach, enhance its service offerings and strengthen its market position. By adopting a business-led approach, RAD is demonstrating that it is possible to generate significant social and environmental impact while building a profitable and sustainable business.
Rukungiri Hub 1
Building a legacy of change
Rural Aquaculture Development is a shining example of how business can be a powerful force for positive change. By equipping smallholder farmers with the knowledge, resources and ongoing support they need to thrive, RAD is not only fostering sustainable livelihoods but also contributing to a more secure and equitable food system in East Africa. As the organisation embarks on its expansion plans, one thing remains certain – RAD’s innovative approach and unwavering commitment to social impact have the potential to transform the lives of countless individuals and reshape the future of aquaculture in the region.
Anton Immink is CEO of ThinkAqua, a global non-profit organisation dedicated to improving the social, economic, and environmental impact of aquaculture. Tim Messeder is CEO and co-founder of RAD, and a strategic partner of ThinkAqua.
Learn more:
FoodShot Global Prize: foodshot.org/portfolio_4.htm
RAD YouTube Channel: www.youtube.com/@RuralAquacultureDevelopment
