Analysis Of Factors Affecting House holds Fish Demand In Gambella Regional State

Abstract

This study analyzed factors that affect the demand of fish in Gambella administrative council and Itang special wereda. Fish demand is an important factor in production and marketing decisions. Fish demand plays a great role because fishermen and distributors recognize their purchase choices as a determinant to their operation. And hence, the study was aimed at providing information on factors that affects fish demand and choice on fish forms among household. Primary data for the study was collected using structured questionnaires from a total household of 371 randomly during period of September – October, 2015. And from direct observations on the traditional fish markets were also made and the available fish species were captured using photographs and videos. Results were analyzed using descriptive statistics and econometric model. The logit regression model result indicated that out of eighteen variables, 12 of them were statistically significant at 5% level of significance. Educational level, respondents’ demand on to fresh fish and dry fish, occupational status and ethnicity had a positive impact on the demand of fish consumption. Lack of awareness, fear of hygiene, fear of fish bone and lack of ability to cook were found as some of the major constraints of fish demand faced to non fish consumers. Modern retailers such as supermarkets has to be involved so that they can power to promote more about fish and fish products than traditional markets to boost the fish demand, especially for the group of society with higher income and higher educational background. Appropriate intervention by the local authorities should be made to secure and maintain the safety and hygiene of fish market places. Training about market strategies needs to be provided to the fishers and fish sellers so that they can develop techniques of selling to attract fish buyer and improve their market outlet.