By Joshua Kato
The success of a cage depends on the availability of water resources and materials for construction. In Uganda, there is no short supply of water bodies.
Other than Lake Victoria, there are smaller lakes across the country, on which the cages can be fixed. Before one makes a selection of a spot for the cages, serious studies must be under taken to among others determine the depth of the lake at that particular area, the appearance of heavy winds that may cause waves in the area etc.
In terms of materials, the cage requires a metallic mesh, that is constructed into a box and placed in a section of the lake.
The structure is fixed with floaters so that it does not sink. Some farmers use plastic drums. The cage is then covered by another mesh that is however opened during feeding and harvesting.
The other advantage-compared to traditional pond fish farming is that there is no need for water quality control, since this water is recycled within the lake.