Eggert, H.; Lokina, Razack B.
Description:
Using an experimental approach, we investigate the risk preferences
of artisanal fishermen in Tanzania waters of Lake Victoria. The experiment concerns
pairwise comparisons of hypothetical fishing trips that vary in expected
mean and spread of the net revenue. The results show that about 34% of the
fishermen can be considered as risk neutral, 32% as risk averse, and 34% as
risk seekers. Econometric analysis indicates that the likelihood of belonging to
the risk-seeking group increases if motorboats are used, if fishing is the main
source of household income, and if the fisherman is targeting Nile perch. Asset
ownership and perhaps socioeconomic variables influence risk preferences.