Despite its wide diversification in terms of production culture
systems and species, freshwater aquaculture production is relatively
low compared to brackish water aquaculture. For instance,
the total production from freshwater aquaculture in 2013 was a
mere 132,892 metric tons (25%) compared to 397,313 metric tons
(75%)from brackish water aquaculture. This low level of freshwater
production could be attributed to technical inefficiency at the farm
level. However, fish farmers may be facing different challenges in
managing their farms and these may contribute directly or indirectly
to technical inefficiency. Factors such as the farmer’s age,
experience, frequency of contact with extension workers, educational
level, household size, farm status, access to credit facilities,
adaptation of technology and water management techniques may
be responsible for the technical inefficiency at farm level. Thus,
it is against this background that the present study aims to estimate
the technical efficiency of different culture systems and
species in freshwater aquaculture. In addition, it aims to investigate
those determinants that are responsible for technical inefficiency
in freshwater aquaculture to formulate policy that will assist in
improving this vital sector.