BY MATHEWS NDANYI
Uasin Gishu county has taken steps to promote fish farming amid growing demand in Eldoret City and neighbouring areas. The county is distributing fingerlings and fish feed to farmers who have ponds.
The county government has urged fish farmers to embrace a cooperative structure.
Fisheries chief officer Nixon Cheplong said fish farmers will realise full benefits by being members of cooperative societies for the sector.
“The only reason fish farmers are struggling is because they have not joined hands in cooperatives. I urge them to do so as it will enable them to leverage resources and enhance their profitability,” he said.
Cheplong spoke during the distribution of fish feed to farmers.
He said the county government had distributed fingerlings to ensure farmers have access to quality stock.
“Access to fingerlings and quality feed has been a big issue for fish farmers but as a county, we are working to ensure we support the farmers because this is one lucrative area where our farmers can invest and avoid overdependence on maize or wheat production,” Cheplong said.
He said the move to distribute fingerlings and feed is part of efforts to promote aquaculture, which plays a crucial role in creating jobs and boosting the economy.
Cheplong highlighted a success story of Joan Jerotich, a 24-year-old fish farmer from Tapsagoi ward.
Cheplong urged other youth to emulate Jerotich's example and venture into fish farming as a viable source of income.
"Youth like Joan are proving that fish farming is a promising venture. I urge others to take inspiration from her success and get involved in aquaculture," he said.
Director of fisheries Edna Kemei emphasised the importance of continued investment in training and resources to help farmers optimise their fish farming practices.
Kemei said the distribution of fish feed marks a significant step in the county's commitment to fostering sustainable aquaculture development.
Fish is a major delicacy across the country but supply remains quite low causing high prices for the commodity.