Kisumu County deputy governor Dr .Mathews Owili has decried the dwindling fisheries sector, despite the efforts being made by the county government.
Speaking during AQUAFEDHA project launch at Ogal Beach in Kisumu West Sub-County, Dr Owili said the fisheries sector still faces significant challenges despite interventions put in place to solve various challenges in order to realize its vast existing potentials.
The DG mentioned some of the challenges faced by the crucial sector, including; the declining fish sticks caused by overfishing , habitual destruction and environmental degradation which he said threatens the livelihood of those who depend on fishing as their primary source of income.
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“The depletion of natural fish sticks has not only led to reduced economic returns but also heightened food insecurity in fishing communities, and to address these pressing concerns, Cage culture presents a viable and sustainable alternative offering a controlled environment for fish farming that reduces pressure on wild fisheries while significantly increasing fish production,” he added.
He further said that by recognizing the urgent need for intervention the county administration is currently spearheading strategic initiatives to modernize and support the fisheries sector which includes; recruiting additional extension officers to prioritize technical expertise and hands on training to fish farmers and ensuring best practical in aquaculture.
Dr.Owili also clarrified that the construction of Modern fish Banda, fish markets and county facilities aims to improve the entire value chain from production to market access while, post-harvest losses which is a major setback for many fishing communities the County has in the flake making machines which ensures proper fish preservation and reduction spoilage hence increasing profitability.
“Fish farming can be boosted through strategic investments in value addition, which can be achieved through production and supply chain improvements and the adoption of innovative fishing technologies,” DG noted.
Dr Owili suggested that the County government can use home grown technologies to unlock untapped opportunities within the blue economy, comparing the Ogal Beach which produces 2-4 tones of tilapia fish cages daily with the potential to expand production even further.
“Equally important is our commitment to a creative and inclusive markets and trade opportunities for our fisher folk and by fostering partnerships ,co-operatives and networks we aim to connect fish farmers to better markets, ensuring that their voices are heard and their products receive value addition for minimum benefits” he said.
By Fredrick Odiero
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