Increasing Independence in Providing Feed in Tilapia Cultivation in Gapokkan Tilapia Village, Kawali District, Ciamis Regency

Abstract

The fishing industry plays an important role in national food security and improving the community's economy. Ciamis Regency, through Kampung Nila in Kawali District, has been designated as a center for tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus) farming. This commodity was chosen because of its rapid growth, affordable price, and stable market demand. However, farmers face high production costs due to their dependence on commercial feed, which reduces their profits. This community service program aims to increase farmers' independence through innovation in self-sufficient feed based on local materials. The method used is Participatory Rural Appraisal (PRA), with stages of socialization, training, technology application, mentoring, and evaluation, covering aspects of production and business management. The results of the activities show an increase in farmers' skills in producing independent feed, a reduction in production costs, and the strengthening of group institutions through collective business management, thereby increasing business profits that have an impact on community welfare. In addition to reducing costs, this program has an impact on increasing solidarity, economic independence, and local food security. The output targets include sustainable feed production skills, the formation of community-based institutions, scientific publications in national journals, and articles in print and electronic mass media.