This study, supplemented by field surveys, summarizes available literature on aquaculture and the context of aquaculture in Malawi. It provides a national case study of one African context in which small-scale aquaculture has developed and in which integrated systems of agriculture-aquaculture might be promoted. The study is divided into two parts. The first, comprising Chapters 1 and 2, deals with Africa as a whole; the remaining chapters, 3 through 10, deal specifically with Malawi. Chapter 1 summarizes the whole book. From a resource systems perspective, and in terms accessible to nonspecialist policymakers and development planners, it gives an overview of the factors involved in African aquaculture, and provides guidance on the organization of feasibility studies and research prerequisites to planning for aquaculture development. Citing studies on traditional systems in areas of North and West Africa, Chapter 2 points out that aquaculture has an ancient tradition in Africa. Modern aquaculture systems introduced to the continent in the past 50 years, and which have been locally adapted, are examined. Also included is a survey of the status of aquaculture in Africa, emphasizing the Southern African Development Coordinating Conference (SADCC) Sub region. Chapter 3 looks at Malawi's environmental, demographic, sociocultural and economic status, and enumerates the national policies and strategies for agriculture and fisheries. It also examines the national agricultural and nutritional situations relative to aquaculture. Since 20% of Malawi is covered with freshwater, and up to 70% of the country's total animal protein consumption comes from capture fisheries, Chapters 4 and 5 examine this subsector, detailing fisheries resources, areas, technologies, and socioeconomic aspects -- treating aquaculture as a complementary activity to capture fisheries. Chapter 6 relates the history and current status of fish farming in Malawi and the national aquaculture development policy. Chapter 7 is an examination of related research, training, extension, and development projects in Malawi. Chapter 8 focuses on small-scale aquaculture, particularly in the Southern Region. Socioeconomic and microeconomic constraints to aquaculture development in Malawi are discussed in Chapters 9 and 10.