Mining, Blue Economy, and Maritime Affairs Cabinet Secretary Hassan Joho has pledged support for fish farmers who lost millions of shillings after tons of fish died under mysterious circumstances.
On Thursday October 3, the CS presented fish feeds worth Ksh 2.5 million in Busia County.
“I subsequently presented fish feeds worth Kshs 2.5 million on behalf of the private sector to the affected Busia fish cage farmers. On our part, the Ministry will provide 500,000 fingerlings to the affected farmers,” the statement in his socials read in part.
At the same time, CS Joho held a meeting with key stakeholders that are critical in planning the way forward in addressing this matter.
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Joho on Sustaining Fish Cages
Conversations centered on what needs to be done to sustain the fish cage farming investment were held. The CS hinted that he directed the line institutions in his ministry to work closely with the county governments Community-Based Organizations, (CBOs) and fisherfolk cooperatives at the grassroots.
Moreover, the institutions were instructed to help in designing cages that will withstand extreme weather conditions and the upwelling of the lake causing harm to the fish.
Joho’s statement noted, “Given the trajectory the fish cage farming has taken; I am certain Kenya will produce enough fish to boost our food security and surplus for export.”
“This will contribute to job and wealth creation leading to economic prosperity for our people,” he further added.
He asserted that the Ministry has also negotiated a discounted price for fish farm inputs for the affected fish cage farmers to help bring them back on track.
He also extended his gratitude to the Governor of Busia County Paul Otuoma who also attended the meeting.
The governor committed to providing resources and also promised to collaborate with them in helping the fish farmers go forward.
The meeting was also attended by senior officers from the State Department for Blue Economy and Fisheries led by the Principal Secretary (PS) Betsy Njagi.
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Billions Spent on Counting Fish at Indian Ocean
The Ministry has been under fire for reportedly spending Ksh 1.6 billion at the Indian Ocean to count fish.
The National Assembly Departmental Committee on Blue Economy, Water, and Irrigation pressed CS Joho and PS Muthoni Njagi to explain whether the country received any benefits for the money spent on the exercise.
Moreover, the Ministry explained that the assessment exercise was crucial to know where we are as country in blue economy. He emphasized that with the assessment the country can defend its position by drawing conclusions from scientific research.
Further, the CS elaborated that the assessment is a global practice carried out by every country that invests in blue economy.
He requested Ksh. 600 million more to aid in completing the exercise citing that the exercise is being done in phases. The ministry emphasized that exercise shall occur in three phases, and it is expected to end culminate in the financial year 2025/26.
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