Government Allocates Sh128 Million Grants to Boost Fish Farming in 15 Counties

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The Kenyan government has disbursed grants totaling Sh128 million to fish farmers across 15 counties under the Aquaculture Business Development Programme (ABDP).

The initiative, co-funded by the Government of Kenya and the International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD), aims to support smallholder farmers in aquaculture, enhancing their sustainability and profitability in fish farming.

Empowering Fish Farmers and Enterprises

The grants will benefit various stakeholders within the aquaculture sector, including:

  • Small Holder Aquaculture Groups (SAGs), comprising women and youth groups.
  • Aquaculture Support Enterprises (ASEs), involved in key support services.
  • Aquaculture Field Schools (AFSs), which train and mentor fish farmers.

The funds will be used to support various stages of fish farming along the value chain, such as pond excavation, fish feed production, value addition, and transportation, among other crucial aspects.

Kakamega County Among the Top Beneficiaries

During the issuance ceremony, Cabinet Secretary for Mining, Blue Economy and Maritime Affairs Hassan Joho presided over the disbursement of funds.

Among the beneficiaries, Kakamega County received a substantial Sh18.17 million, directly impacting over 2,944 farmers in the region.

Joho noted that since its inception, ABDP has invested over Sh257 million in Kakamega County, which has gone towards:

  • Pond liners and predator kits worth Sh188 million.
  • Construction of the Kakamega fresh fish market at Sh10 million.
  • Issuance of fingerlings worth Sh18 million.
  • Supply of fish feeds valued at Sh41 million.

Scaling Up Investment in the Blue Economy

CS Joho emphasized the government’s commitment to strengthening the blue economy, describing aquaculture as a new frontier for economic growth.

“What we are launching today is a Sh128 million grant, but we anticipate securing Sh329 million in phase two. We encourage stakeholders to continue designing impactful programs and submitting proposals to convince IFAD of the programme’s effectiveness in transforming lives,” Joho stated.

To support the growing aquaculture industry, the government is also investing Sh1.6 billion in modern landing sites across lake and coastal regions.

These sites will be equipped with ice-making machines and cooling systems, ensuring better fish preservation and market access.

Additionally, the government is constructing 10 fish markets in 10 counties, with an investment of Sh70 million, to create a sustainable marketplace for fish products.

Boosting Fingerling Production and Alternative Livelihoods

Recognizing the challenges faced by fish farmers in acquiring high-quality fingerlings, ABDP will inject Sh100 million into fingerling production.

Furthermore, the government has allocated Sh359 million to procure fish cages for communities in the lake region, coupled with fingerlings and fish feed support to enhance sustainability.

“We are rolling out a comprehensive programme for pond liners and predator nets, backed by a Sh1.8 billion investment, ensuring these resources reach the right farmers at the right time,” Joho affirmed.

Kakamega Governor Lauds ABDP’s Impact

Kakamega Governor Fernandes Barasa welcomed the grants, acknowledging ABDP’s instrumental role in revitalizing fish farming in the region.

Since its launch, the programme has supported 2,885 farmers with essential resources, including predator nets, PVC liners, fingerlings, and fish feeds.

Additionally, the county has seen the establishment of 87 Aquaculture Smallholder Groups (ASGs) and 90 Aquaculture Small Enterprises (ASEs), all of which are now operational.

To further strengthen the sector, ABDP has also provided:

  • Vehicles and motorcycles to enhance fishery extension services.
  • A fishing boat at Lumino Dam in Likuyani Sub-County, promoting optimal utilization of fishery resources.
  • A newly constructed fresh fish market at Masingo in Lurambi Sub-County, improving market access for fish farmers.

Next Phase: Fish Marketing, Profitability, and Sustainability

Governor Barasa emphasized that while Phase 1 of ABDP focused on fish production and income generation, the next phase will prioritize fish marketing, profitability, and long-term sustainability.

“This new phase will create more jobs, foster entrepreneurship, and increase county revenue, ensuring a vibrant and profitable fish farming industry,” he stated.

Future Outlook

With the government’s continued investment in aquaculture and the blue economy, fish farming is set to become a major economic driver in Kenya.

The strategic funding of Sh128 million under ABDP will empower smallholder farmers, enhance food security, and create employment opportunities across the country.

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