By: Loise Shiimi
Tomas Kanime, a researcher and farmer, is encouraging the public to explore the potential of frog farming during the rainy season, as this is when frogs thrive.
In an interview with Eagle FM, Kanime highlighted that the rainy season is the optimal time to find more tadpoles, which are essential for starting a frog farming venture. He suggests collecting tadpoles from open ponds to kickstart the farming process.
“What inspired me to seize this opportunity and start frog farming was observing the popularity of frog meat during the rainy season. I conducted research to determine if it was feasible to farm frogs and supply them throughout the year. My findings were promising, which led me to begin this venture,” he explained.
Kanime also shared that the demand for frog meat is significant, with cooked frogs priced at N$200 each and uncooked ones at N$150, with customers eagerly purchasing them without hesitation.
On how frogs can survive throughout the year, given that they are usually only seen during the rainy season, he explained that when creating a pond, it is best to use rainwater or sand from an earth dam.
“You should avoid using tap water unless you mix it with sand from an earth dam and add grass to your pond,” he advised.
Regarding feeding, Kanime noted that frogs are easy to care for because they do not require purchased feed from stores. During the rainy season, their primary food source is tadpoles.
“Make sure to collect enough tadpoles during the rainy season, while during dry periods you can place light bulbs around the ponds at night to attract insects for the frogs to eat,” he shared.
He further explained that there is a stage in a frog’s life cycle when it does not eat, but instead burrows underground, waiting for ideal conditions before emerging. He also described how long it takes for tadpoles to mature into edible frogs, stating that they typically reach readiness in just three to four months.
Currently, he has approximately 400 frogs in his ponds, having started with tadpoles.
“All I see is progress since I began. Even now that I have more frogs, I continue to add more tadpoles for them to feed on,” he said.
In terms of storage, he indicated that refrigeration is the best method for preserving slaughtered frogs, sharing that they can remain in the refrigerator for months without losing flavour.
Kanime suggested that the government supports such initiatives by providing funding and promoting these local products for international export.
“There are nations that lack frogs, or their varieties are not suitable for consumption, while we possess an excellent variety that could be marketed abroad. Why aren’t we collaborating with our universities to research our frog species and promote the benefits of frog meat?” he queried.
Meanwhile, Saara Martin from Omangundu B Village in the Oshikoto Region shared her experiences of catching frogs to feed her household and sell in nearby towns.
“Frogs are a delicacy, and people love them. Residents in my village are not my primary customers since they can catch frogs themselves, so I often travel to nearby towns like Ondangwa and Omuthiya to sell. I’ve never returned home with unsold stock, indicating strong demand,” she remarked.
Martin added that the income from the sale of these frogs enables her to purchase school supplies for her children.
“I didn’t realise frog farming was possible, but I would like to receive more training to seize this opportunity,” she added.
