Baseline characterization of the practices and utilization of feed ingredients among processors/millers in Kenya

The sustainability and resilience of aquaculture feed systems in sub-Saharan Africa depend not only on farm-level feeding practices but also on the availability, quality, and accessibility of locally produced feed ingredients. To support this objective, WorldFish is implementing a five-year initiative titled Development and Scaling of Sustainable Feeds for Resilient Aquatic Food Systems in Sub-Saharan Africa (FASA), funded by the Norwegian Agency for Development Cooperation (Norad). The project seeks to strengthen local feed value chains by promoting the production, processing, and use of affordable and nutritionally appropriate feed ingredients. This dataset presents baseline survey data collected from 178 small-scale fish feed ingredient processors in Kenya. The processors operate across key aquaculture regions, including the Lake Victoria basin and coastal counties. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire administered through face-to-face interviews with processors involved in the sourcing, processing, storage, and marketing of locally available feed ingredients. The dataset captures detailed information on processor characteristics, types of feed ingredients handled, processing technologies and practices, sourcing and seasonality of raw materials, quality control measures, storage and handling practices, production volumes and costs, market access, pricing, and linkages with fish farmers and feed millers. Additional variables document constraints faced by processors, including technical, financial, regulatory, and market-related challenges, as well as access to training, extension services, and institutional support. This dataset provides an empirical basis for analyzing bottlenecks and opportunities within local feed ingredient supply chains, informing the design of targeted interventions to improve feed quality, reduce costs, and strengthen market linkages. It also establishes baseline indicators for monitoring progress and evaluating the impact of FASA interventions aimed at enhancing the sustainability and inclusiveness of aquaculture feed systems in sub-Saharan Africa.