Albania aquaculture and fisheries development

Project description and benefits

A World Bank project aiming to enhance the economic and environmental sustainability of aquaculture and fisheries activities in Albania. The project seeks to support the Albanian Government’s efforts to re-develop the aquaculture sector and to explore the potential for new, high value aquaculture species through demonstration programmes. On the fisheries side the project will provide technical assistance and institutional strengthening to the relevant fishery management organisations.

Services provided by Cefas

Cefas provided independent consulting advice to World Bank staff on two separate occasions. Both inputs were at the early project development stage and involved providing specialist expertise to assist in defining the scope of the project. Cefas staff initially conducted a wide ranging strategic appraisal of possible aquaculture pilot projects, including both freshwater and marine systems. The appraisals covered a wide range of aspects including addressing infra-structural, scientific, economic and environmental issues. Subsequent Cefas participation involved a review of freshwater hatchery management and the associated capture fishery. Expansion of mussel cultivation in Butrinti Lagoon was assessed. The timescales and costs associated with the renewal of mussel cultivation at this, and other sites on the Albanian coast were reported, including the use of the best modern practices of mussel cultivation. The public health measures in place for mussel production in Albania were reviewed with respect to gaining certification to export mussels to the European Union.