Senators order immediate stop of fishing activities in Lake Nakuru

Senators have ordered an immediate halt to all fishing activities at Lake Nakuru following declaration that fish from the lake are unfit for human consumption and the allegations of forced disappearances involving young fishermen.

The directive was issued on Tuesday by the Senate Committee on National Security, Defence and Foreign Relations, chaired by senator Fatuma Dullo, during a meeting with officials from the Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS) and Gaplink International.

“Any fishing at Lake Nakuru must stop immediately. KWS must ensure that there is no fishing taking place at the lake,” Dullo directed.

Submissions presented to the committee indicated that fish from the lake had previously been declared unfit for human consumption, raising concerns about public health.

“Why are people being allowed to fish and supply the condemned fish to markets? This must stop today,” she added.

The petition, filed by Gaplink International, calls on the Senate to investigate the alleged fish state and disappearances; and recommend appropriate action.

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The petitioners are seeking a comprehensive probe into the claims, including possible involvement of KWS officers, as well as measures to strengthen community engagement and safeguard human rights.

The organization, represented by Tom Mboya alongside co-petitioner Peter Mbae, told the committee that local residents who depend on fishing for their livelihoods have faced intimidation and violence. They further alleged that fishing activities have continued despite existing restrictions.

However, KWS Director General Erustus Kanga dismissed the allegations, stating that the agency does not tolerate human rights abuses.

“KWS remains open to engaging with any specific, documented complaints submitted through the appropriate channels. We have not received any formal reports or notifications of forced disappearances of young fishermen at Lake Nakuru National Park,” Kanga said.

Kanga said that he warned Kenyans against eating fish from the lake saying contaminated fish is spreading across the country and posing a serious health risk.

The committee said it will expand its inquiry by engaging key stakeholders, including the Ministry of Interior, National Environment Management Authority (NEMA), the County Government of Nakuru and the Kenya Fisheries Service, before compiling a comprehensive report.

By Obegi Malack

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