Digital Transformation for Small-Scale Fisheries: An Integrated Framework to Overcome Adoption Barriers and Enhance Economic Sustainability

Abdullahi Alhassan, Muhammed Umar Nmakatun, Nworie Cynthia Chinagorom, Nwangwu Desmond Chinedu and Yahaya Zakari
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Abdullahi Alhassan: Freshwater Fisheries Research Center of Academy of Fisheries Sciences, Wuxi Fisheries Collage, Nanjing Agricultural University, Peoples Republic of China.
Muhammed Umar Nmakatun: T.C. Üsküdar University, Altunizade Mh. Üniversite Sk. No: 14 34662 Üsküdar-İstanbul.
Nworie Cynthia Chinagorom: Freshwater Fisheries Research Center of Academy of Fisheries Sciences, Wuxi Fisheries Collage, Nanjing Agricultural University, Peoples Republic of China.
Nwangwu Desmond Chinedu: Fish Genetics and Biotechnology Programme, National Institute for Freshwater Fisheries Research, P. M. B. 6006, New-Bussa, Niger State, Nigeria.
Yahaya Zakari: Department of Statistics, Ahmadu Bello University Zaria, Nigeria.

International Journal of Science and Business, 2025, vol. 48, issue 1, 55-74

Abstract: Small-scale fisheries (SSFs) are paramount to global nutrition, livelihoods, and local economies, yet their economic potential is stifled by persistent challenges including market isolation, price volatility, and significant post-harvest losses. Digital transformation presents a profound opportunity to rectify these inefficiencies and enhance profitability. However, the adoption of technologies such as mobile platforms, blockchain, and IoT remains critically low in developing regions, not merely due to a lack of infrastructure, but because of profound innovation resistance rooted in socio-economic and psychological barriers. This study synthesizes evidence from global cases to argue that overcoming these adoption barriers—including value, image, risk, and traditional constraints—requires more than technical solutions; it necessitates an integrated, multi-stakeholder framework. We propose a holistic model that aligns technological innovation with targeted strategies in digital literacy, inclusive co-design, supportive policy, and innovative financing. This framework provides a actionable roadmap for leveraging digital transformation to finally bridge the gap between technological potential and tangible economic sustainability for small-scale fishers, ensuring gains in equity and resilience are achieved alongside profitability.

Keywords: Digital Transformation; Small-Scale Fisheries; Innovation Resistance; Adoption Barriers; Economic Sustainability; Multi-Stakeholder Framework (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2025
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Persistent link: https://EconPapers.repec.org/RePEc:aif:journl:v:48:y:2025:i:1:p:55-74

DOI: 10.58970/IJSB.2625

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