By Rasto Wamalwa
Kakamega Governor FCPA Fernandes Barasa and Cabinet Secretary for Mining, Blue Economy, and Maritime Affairs, Hon. Ali Hassan Joho, presided over the issuance of Sh128 million in grants to aquaculture groups across 15 counties under the IFAD-supported Aquaculture Business Development Programme (ABDP). Kakamega County received a total of Sh18.17 million in cheques.
Speaking at the event in Kakamega, Governor Barasa highlighted the county’s significant strides in the aquaculture sector. He noted that his administration has supported over 2,885 Level 1 beneficiaries with essential equipment and services, including predator and bird net kits, PVC liners, fingerlings, fish feeds, fisheries extension services, and training programs for fish farmers.
Additionally, Barasa emphasized that his government has equipped and operationalized 87 smallholder groups and 90 aquaculture small enterprises, such as Momonyonzo Dam in Likuyani. These initiatives, he said, aim to boost fish production not only for domestic consumption but also as a means of wealth creation.
On his part, CS Hassan Joho acknowledged the increase in fish production, noting that it has significantly benefited farmers in Kakamega. He added that the next phase of ABDP will focus on making fish farming a commercially viable enterprise.
The event was attended by Principal Secretary Ms. Betsy Njagi, officials from the Ministry of Mining, Blue Economy, and Maritime Affairs, MCAs, and executive members from the 15 beneficiary counties, led by host CECM Mophat Mandela.
