Current trends in availability and access of Omena (small fish) and farmed Tilapia in Kisumu market outlets

The main objective is to investigate and analyze the current trends in the availability and access for consumers of Omena (small fish) (Rastrineobola argentea) compared to farmed Tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus) in the market outlets of Kisumu, Kenya.

Methods

In the field I used mixed methods as Creswell (2014) emphasizes that a mixed-methods approach allows researchers to capture both numerical trends and contextual depth, making it especially useful when exploring complex social and market dynamics such as fish access in Kisumu’s diverse urban settings.

Interviews

In this study, interviews were one of the main methods used to collect qualitative data, allowing me to speak directly with fish traders in the markets and cage farmers at the beaches. To keep the process consistent, I followed an interview guide so that each participant was asked the same key questions, while still leaving room for them to share their own experiences. Through these interviews, I was able to gather practical insights into everyday issues such as pricing, fish supply, customer demand, and the difficulties of distribution.

Questionnaires survey

Before using this tool in the field, I pre-tested it with a small group of people who shared similar backgrounds with the main respondents. This trial run helped me identify questions that were unclear or leading, and I revised them to make sure they were simple, neutral, and easy to understand.

Observations

I used direct observation to complement the survey and interview methods, I spent a whole day in each market as I wanted to capture a whole day experience by quietly watching how traders arranged their fish, how buyers examined the products, and how prices were negotiated. Being physically present allowed me to notice details that would never appear in a questionnaire, such as how freshness changed throughout the day, how weather affected what was available.

I also paid attention to the social interactions shaping buying decisions.  A whole day visit enables me to know the timing of the different type of species and observe seasonal and daily variations. Early mornings were dominated by fresh Omena, farmed Tilapia and Nile perch, while afternoons saw more fried Tilapia and catfish. The condition of the fish whether fresh, smoked, or dried, depended heavily on weather and the limited storage facilities available.

Participatory fieldwork

To stay grounded, I took part in simple activities like sorting fish, feeding process of the cage Tilapia, packaging  Omena, and leading in selling process whereby the trader left me to sell for buyer who came while I was conducting the interview. Also, I participated in the feeding of the cage tilapia which were placed deep into the lake and we had to go by boat.

Preliminary Results 

• Omena remains the most consumed fish in many homes, especially among younger and lower-income households because it’s cheaper, familiar, and quick to cook.
• Supply consistency is a concern. Omena was widely traded but highly sensitive to rainfall, which disrupted sun-drying and led to spoilage
• Farmed Tilapia access and availability is consistent, but it has not replaced Omena in household diets, it has expanded options, especially during festive seasons when families seek variety
• Location and income matter. In lower-income estates Omena was the most frequently consumed species, valued for its affordability, nutritional value, and ease of preparation while Tilapia is seen as a premium option, its consumption is tied to income stability and social occasions, rather than daily meals
• Gender shapes access. Women were consistently more involved in purchasing and preparing fish, often making choices based on price, cooking time, and family preferences.

I plan to analyze the data collected and turn it into clear findings that reflect community realities. I will use these insights to write my thesis and connect them to broader sustainability debates. My experience will guide me in sharing practical recommendations that can support local food systems and inform policy.

Studying human geography in Bergen feels inspiring, with the city’s landscapes and diverse people turning theory into real experience.

Advice for students

Start your master studies with an open mind and steady focus, because the more you engage with both people and ideas here, the more rewarding your journey will be.