Sustainable Fish Farming: The Story of Enam Matsya Hatchery

Located on the banks of Dom Dighi in North Madarsha Union, Hathajari Upazila, Chattogram, Enam Matsya Hatchery is a testament to the transformative power of modern aquaculture practices and the invaluable support of development initiatives. This three-acre fish farm, owned by entrepreneur Enam Chowdhury, owes much of its success to the guidance and assistance provided by the Integrated Development Foundation (IDF) in collaboration with PKSF.

Despite his background in business and marketing, Enam initially faced challenges in managing his fish farm. Established in 2012, the farm expanded to 160 decimals, producing Halda river fish spawn, fingerlings, and shrimp. However, limited knowledge of advanced aquaculture techniques and digital marketing hindered his ability to achieve sustainable profitability.

Recognizing the potential to enhance his operations, Enam sought support from the IDF under the “Production and Marketing of Safe Fish and Fish Products” value chain development project. This initiative aims to empower fish farmers with the tools, knowledge, and resources necessary for sustainable and efficient aquaculture.

Through the project, IDF provided a combination of financial support and technical training to transform Enam Matsya Hatchery into a modern, sustainable enterprise. With IDF’s assistance, Enam adopted semi-intensive farming methods, leveraging Halda river carp spawn and shrimp post-larvae (PL) to boost productivity. Advanced equipment, such as jet aerators for oxygenation, probiotics for better fish health, safe feed, and fencing nets for pond security, further enhanced the farm’s operations. Additionally, IDF organized comprehensive training programs focused on best practices in aquaculture, environmental sustainability, and the production of safe fish. These strategic interventions significantly improved the farm’s efficiency and profitability, positioning Enam as a successful entrepreneur in sustainable fish farming

IDF also encouraged Enam to utilize online platforms for marketing his produce, helping him expand his reach to consumers and local businesses. Together with his wife, he manages a Facebook page, which has become a key tool for direct sales and customer engagement. This digital approach has significantly boosted the farm’s sales, ensuring a reliable source of income. Over a six-month period, Enam Matsya Hatchery successfully sold 1,220 kilograms of carp, generating BDT 360,000, and 400 kilograms of shrimp, earning BDT 320,000. After covering operational expenses of BDT 460,000, the farm achieved a net income of BDT 220,000, reflecting the effectiveness of the strategies implemented with IDF’s support.

Enam envisions scaling his operations with further innovation and support from IDF and PKSF. His plans include developing a smart fish hatchery equipped with automated systems for real-time monitoring and management. This step aims to enhance productivity, reduce waste, and further promote sustainable aquaculture practices.

Enam expressed his gratitude, stating, “The support from IDF has been instrumental in my success. I am now able to produce safe, high-quality fish while maintaining profitability, and I look forward to achieving even greater milestones in the future.”