The research and development mandate of NACA is addressed through five thematic work programmes and three cross-cutting work programmes that support sustainable aquaculture and aquatic resource management in the region. Current thematic programmes are:

• Sustainable Farming Systems.
• Aquatic Animal Health.
• Emerging Global Issues.
• Food Safety, Quality and Certification.
• Genetics and Biodversity.

These are supported by cross-cutting programmes on:

• Gender
• Training and Education.
• Communications.

Implementation

The programmes are implemented through the development of projects and activities by the Secretariat in collaboration with participating research centres, member governments and other partners. Individual projects draw heavily on the personnel and facilities of participating centres. Projects are essentially implemented by the centres with the Secretariat acting as a coordinating body. NACA also works in close cooperation with FAO, international donor agencies and other regional and international organisations in implementing the work plan.