Women in West African Mangrove Oyster (Crassostrea Tulipa) Harvesting, Contribution to Food Security and Nutrition in Ghana

Abstract

Declining marine fish stocks have severe effects on the livelihoods of small-scale coastal fishing communities. As a result, the development of additional livelihoods in oyster production has become appropriate as a way of improving incomes and nutrition, reducing hunger, and creating employment among women. Oysters are rich in essential vitamins and minerals such as protein, omega-3 fatty acids, calcium, zinc, iron, and vitamins B and E, and pose no risk to human cholesterol levels. The objective of this study is to examine Crassostrea tulipa harvesting in Ghana by women and its contribution to food security and nutrition. Data was collected from Bortianor, Tetegu, Tsokome, and Faana communities along the Densu Delta in the Greater Accra Region of Ghana using the Kobo Toolbox. A total of a hundred (100) harvesters were sampled for the study. Findings showed that the youth and elderly are into oyster production with years of experience of harvesters ranging from 1 to 40 years (average of 13 years). Most oyster harvestors (69%) have basic level of education. Settlers are mostly involved in oyster activities (79%) and family members are involved in oyster harvesting. Oyster activities is not the main source of income of most of the women sampled (70%). The proportion of income from oyster activities forms an average of 45% of total household income. All respondents sold oyster meat to consumers in the steamed form (100.0%) and 30% sold oyster shells to companies and individuals to be used as ballaster for road and poultry grit lime flour (animal feed) among others. The oyster business is a profitable venture with a simple and short supply chain (Vertically Integrated). Some of the co-management policies implemented in the communities included closed season. Inadequate protective working gear, inadequate harvesting tools (e.g., shoes, snickers, knives), high hiring cost of boat/canoes, and wounds from cuts on part of the body during harvesting are some challenges affecting the women in the sector.