Many fish processors on beaches still dry and smoke fish over open, smoky fires. This method is hard work, uses much firewood and can harm peopleĂs health. A study found high losses after harvest, during processing and while selling fish.
In 2024 researchers, with funding from SGCI through MalawiĂs National Commission for Science and Technology, began a project to reduce these losses. They developed modern enclosed fish-smoking kilns that keep heat, use less firewood and are easy to use.
Extension workers have trained processors in kiln building, safe handling and cleaner smoking. Processors say they need less wood and labour and the response has been positive.
Difficult words
- processor — person who prepares fish to sellprocessors
- kiln — closed oven used to smoke or dry fishkilns
- loss — amount of product lost or wastedlosses
- extension worker — person who trains and advises local workersExtension workers
- firewood — wood cut for fuel in open fires
Tip: hover, focus or tap highlighted words in the article to see quick definitions while you read or listen.
Discussion questions
- Do you think enclosed kilns are better than open fires? Why or why not?
- How would using less firewood help people and the environment?
- Would you like to learn to build a kiln or to smoke fish more safely? Why?
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