In December 2024, the INCiTiS-FOOD project launched its first Open Call, inviting external consortia to propose solutions based on circular agri-food technologies. The aim was to support practical, locally grounded projects that apply approaches such as hydroponics, aquaponics, and insect farming in real conditions. Selected consortia receive funding to implement their ideas and contribute to more sustainable city-region food systems.
Among the selected projects is AQUA-IFS (Aquaponics Integrated Food Systems), implemented in Nigeria. The project focuses on combining fish farming and crop production within a single system, exploring how these two activities can support each other while making more efficient use of available resources.
Linking Fish Farming and Crop Production
AQUA-IFS is based on a straightforward idea: what is typically considered waste in one part of the system can become a resource in another. In aquaponics, water from fish tanks carries nutrients that plants can use to grow. As plants absorb these nutrients, they help clean the water, which is then returned to the fish tanks.
In practice, this means that a small-scale system can produce both fish and vegetables at the same time. For example, water used to raise fish can also support the growth of leafy greens such as lettuce or herbs, reducing the need for additional fertilisers and limiting water waste.
This type of setup is particularly relevant in urban and peri-urban areas, where space and resources are often limited. By combining production processes, AQUA-IFS explores how more can be achieved with fewer inputs.
From System Setup to Everyday Use
The project is not only about introducing aquaponics as a concept, but also about understanding how it works in practice.
Demonstration systems are set up to show how the different elements of the system function together. Participants can observe how water circulates, how fish and plants are managed, and how small adjustments affect the overall balance of the system.
Training activities are an important part of this process. Farmers, entrepreneurs, and other local actors are supported in learning how to operate and maintain these systems. For instance, this may include understanding how to monitor water quality, how to balance fish and plant production, or how to respond if something in the system is not working as expected.
Rather than assuming immediate large-scale adoption, AQUA-IFS focuses on gradual learning. Participants are encouraged to test the system, adapt it to their own conditions, and build confidence over time.
Practical Benefits for Local Food Production
By producing both fish and crops within the same system, AQUA-IFS supports more diversified food production. This can help reduce reliance on a single source of income and create additional opportunities for local markets.
At the same time, the recirculating nature of aquaponics systems can help reduce water use compared to conventional farming approaches. For communities where water access is limited or inconsistent, this can make a noticeable difference in how production systems are managed.
The project also highlights how integrated systems can support more stable production. If one part of the system is affected, the overall structure still provides some level of flexibility, allowing producers to adjust their approach.
The Partners Behind the Project
AQUA-IFS is implemented by a consortium of two organisations that bring complementary experience to the project.
Agro Fish Farm Ltd contributes practical knowledge in aquaculture and farming operations, supporting the development of fish production within the system.
DREXLER Limited contributes experience in project coordination and innovation, supporting the overall design and implementation of activities.
Together, these partners combine technical and organisational expertise, helping ensure that the project is both practical and adapted to local conditions.
Looking Ahead
Through its activities, AQUA-IFS explores how aquaponics systems can be applied in real conditions, linking fish farming and crop production in a way that makes efficient use of resources. The project contributes to broader efforts within INCiTiS-FOOD to test and refine circular approaches that respond to local needs.
To stay updated on AQUA-IFS and other Open Call winners, follow INCiTiS-FOOD on LinkedIn and explore more stories from across the project.
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