Performances Économiques Comparées Des Unités De Pêche En Lagune Et Des Alternatives Agricoles Et Aquacoles À Grand-Lahou (Côte d’Ivoire)

Abstract

The lagoons are high biological and economic potential areas exploited by thousands of fishermen. Otherwise, the persistent use of pesticides in fisheries may be perceived as a response of fishermen to lower yields and, consequently, to reduced income from fishing activities. In this context, the hypothesis of a lack of profitability concerning the activity of professional fishermen was therefore raised. To reach this goal, a market survey, investments and fish landings were carried out in order to analyze the profitability and economic performance of this activity. It recorded 5227 catch exits from a sample of 35 fixed fishermen in 7 villages. These were followed 15 times a month for 12 months whenever possible. In practice, approximately 60% of the suspected activity of professional fishermen has been observed. After elaborating the annual operating accounts and calculating the performance ratios, it appears that the lagoon fishing activity of Grand-Lahou is profitable and competitive compared to the alternative economic activities of the study area. However, performance is not homogeneous between villages. This suggests a fishing-related effect on fishers' performance. In addition, it is the Liza falcipinnis and Chrysichthys nigrodigitatus species that significantly influence the value of production and hence income.