ASSESSMENT OF COPING STRATEGIES OF FISH FEED PRODUCERS TO HIGH PRODUCTION COST IN BENIN METROPOLIS

ABSTRACT

This study aims to explore the coping strategies employed by fish feed producers in Benin Metropolis to address the challenges posed by high production costs. Through a qualitative research design, the study delves into the mindset of fish feed producers, seeking to understand their adaptation techniques in the face of economic constraints. The sample for this study comprised registered fish feed producers operating in Benin Metropolis. Efforts to obtain a list of producers from the Ministry of Agriculture proved unsuccessful, necessitating the use of a snowballing method for respondent selection. Despite challenges in locating fish feed producers, three respondents were identified and interviewed. Qualitative data analysis was conducted using Nvivo 14 software, involving the translation of interview recordings into written documents. A deductive approach was employed, drawing upon existing literature to create an initial conceptual framework. Thematic analysis was conducted, with transcripts read repeatedly to assign utterances to thematic areas, and memos and annotations used to capture meanings and arrangements. The analysis revealed insights into the coping strategies of fish feed producers in Benin Metropolis. Despite limited sample size, the study identified various adaptation techniques employed by producers, including the use of alternative materials, industry collaborations, and technical adjustments. Challenges such as fluctuating material costs and limited access to information were highlighted. Overall, the study underscores the importance of qualitative research methods in exploring complex phenomena and provides valuable insights into the adaptive behaviors of fish feed producers facing high production costs.