Siaya county will work with all sector players to ensure sustainable management and development of lake resources, Governor James Orengo has said.
Orengo said his administration will train fishermen to improve their craft and advocate for safe fishing practices and ensure value addition.
He said this will unlock the Sh4 billion fish market and improve the livelihoods of the fishermen.
Orengo spoke during the commemoration of World Fisheries Day in Liunda Beach, Bondo subcounty on Tuesday.
“Fish farming is one of the key components of our economic transformation agenda that we will continue to support in to increase our income generation,” he said.
Siaya mainly relies on Lake Victoria and Lake Kanyaboli, for its natural fisheries resources.
The governor said the two lakes contribute up to 95 per cent of the annual fish production by weight.
This translates to about 30,000 metric tonnes of fish every year, with the potential of generating Sh4 billion.
The county has two more lakes, namely, Sare and Bob; two major rivers, Nzoia and Yala and private fishponds.
The 2019 census report says some 14,000 fishing crews (5,090 crafts) go to Lake Victoria daily.
Siaya Blue Economy executive Sylvestre K'Okoth urged fishermen to adhere to safe and legal fishing practices.
“Fishing practices that destroy the fishing habitat, fishing for juvenile fish or using unauthorised means must be discouraged to ensure sustainability,” he said.
K'Okoth said the Fish Processing Plant at Luanda Kotieno in Rarieda subcounty has created a positive impact in value addition.
Chief officer Elizabeth Adongo cited climate change, increased production costs and rising population as reasons for harsh farming environment.
She said the Directorate of Fisheries has increased to 42, number of fisheries staff to help fish farmers navigate difficulties in the business.
“We are committed to continuously look into their welfare, provide an enabling working environment and offer regular training for enhanced skills which would directly be impacted to fishing communities investments,” Adongo said.
Mining, Blue Economy and Maritime Affairs Cabinet Secretary Salim Mvurya announced that Siaya will host the National Celebrations of World Fisheries Day 2024.
A further budgetary allocation of sh1.5 billion will go towards the development of Luanda Kotieno, Asembo Bay and Wich Lum fish landing sites.
