Radio Ndeke Luka broadcast a segment regarding the maintenance of above-ground fish basins during its "Mag-Agri" program on 22 October 2026. This discussion focused on the operational requirements for farmers managing aquaculture facilities in Centrafrique. The Radio Ndeke Luka 'Mag-Agri' program featured a discussion on the maintenance of above-ground fish basins on October 22, 2026.
Afro Makpayen, who serves as the president and founder of the Agropastoral association based in Bimbo, contributed to the program. The association operates within the community to support local agricultural practices and development. Afro Makpayen is the president and founder of the Agropastoral association based in Bimbo.
During the broadcast, the conversation centered on the specific technical needs of aquaculture systems that are constructed above the ground rather than excavated into the earth. Afro Makpayen detailed the foundational requirements for these basins, emphasizing that structural integrity is the primary concern for any farmer utilizing this method. Because these basins sit above the surface, they are subject to different environmental pressures than traditional ponds. Afro Makpayen noted that the materials used in the construction of the basins must be monitored regularly to prevent leaks or structural failure.
The Agropastoral association, under the guidance of Afro Makpayen, provides resources to community members in Bimbo to ensure that these aquaculture facilities remain productive throughout the year. The maintenance of the water quality within these above-ground basins is another critical aspect addressed by the association. Afro Makpayen explained that because the volume of water is contained in a smaller, elevated space, the management of oxygen levels and waste removal is more intensive than in larger, soil-based systems.
Farmers participating in the program were advised on the necessity of routine inspections of the basin walls and the supporting framework. Afro Makpayen noted that even minor cracks or weaknesses in the basin structure can lead to significant water loss, which threatens the health of the fish population. The Agropastoral association advocates for a proactive approach to maintenance, where farmers check the stability of their installations before and after significant weather events.
The discussion touched upon the importance of hygiene within the aquaculture environment. Afro Makpayen emphasized that keeping the area around the basins clean prevents the introduction of contaminants into the water supply. The Agropastoral association in Bimbo continues to promote these standardized maintenance practices to help farmers achieve consistent yields. By following these specific operational guidelines, those managing above-ground fish basins in Centrafrique can improve the longevity of their equipment and the overall success of their agricultural activities. The program concluded with a reminder from Afro Makpayen that consistent attention to the physical infrastructure of the fish basins is the most effective way to mitigate risks associated with above-ground aquaculture. The Agropastoral association remains committed to providing this technical support to the farmers in the region.
