KENYA – The Kenyan government in Siaya County has unveiled ambitious plans to unlock the Ksh 4 billion fish market through strategic initiatives aimed at promoting sustainable fishing practices and boosting the local economy.
The county, heavily reliant on Lake Victoria and Kanyaboli for its natural fisheries resources, will prioritize training fishermen with modern skills, advocate for safe fishing practices, and promote value addition to increase fishers’ income.
Governor James Orengo, officiating the World Fisheries Day 2023 Celebrations at Liunda Beach in Bondo Sub County, emphasized the significance of fish farming as a key component of the county’s economic transformation agenda.
“Fish farming is one of the key components of our economic transformation agenda that we will continue to support to increase our income generation,” he said.
“The two lakes contribute over 95% of the annual fish production by weight, generating about 30,000 metric tons of fish annually and earning fishers over Ksh 4 billion.”
Meanwhile, Siaya County aims to enhance the skills of its fishing community, as evidenced by the 2020 boat census, which revealed 14,708 fishing crews operating 5,090 crafts in Siaya Waters of Lake Victoria.
The fisheries resources in the region play a crucial role in supporting the livelihoods of many residents through food and employment directly and indirectly.
County Executive Committee Member for Agriculture, Food Security, Livestock, and Blue Economy, K’Okoth Sylvestre, emphasized the importance of safe and regulated fishing practices.
“Discouraging practices that harm the fishing habitat or exploit juvenile fish is seen as essential for ensuring the sustainability of this vital resource.”
Siaya County already boasts the Lwanda K’Otieno Fish Processing Plant, creating opportunities for utilizing by-catch and low-value fish catches.
Sylvestre highlighted the economic potential of high-value fish-based coated products, providing dividends to everyone in the production and distribution network.
Chief Officer for Agriculture, Food Security, Livestock, and Blue Economy, Elizabeth Adongo, acknowledged the challenges posed by changing climatic conditions, rising production costs, and a growing population.
To support farmers in the face of these difficulties, the Directorate of Fisheries has expanded to 42 fisheries staff, ensuring individual attention to all farmers in the county.
Additionally, Siaya County has allocated Ksh 1.5 billion towards the development of fish landing sites in Luanda Kotieno, Asembo Bay, and Wich Lum, showcasing a commitment to infrastructure development that aligns with the county’s vision for a thriving and sustainable fishing industry.
