Fish farming in Turkana West Sub-County has received a shot in the arm from the County government and Lattice Aquaculture project through the donation of water pumps, floaters and a generator to the Kakuma Bee Social Integrated Enterprise.
The County Aquaculture Officer, John Bett, noted that Lattice Aquaculture and WFP’s support will accelerate and strengthen aquaculture systems in Turkana West and further develop those in Turkana Central as well.
“Many self-help groups, especially women far from Lake Turkana, see fish farming as a lucrative opportunity. It generates income and provides accessible protein to tackle malnutrition rates,” says Bett.
He added that individuals with capacity are interested due to the huge market demand.
Bett further said, the push for this has been driven by rising demand for fresh fish, fuelled by campaigns promoting fish as a protein-rich food for locals.
The Project Manager for Lattice Aquaculture, Mika Mitoto, said the project targets to empower women and youth in Fisheries through inclusive market access.
“We aim to support marginalized groups such as youth and women, integrating host community and refugees in Kakuma. These groups exhibit promise and are poised for growth,” explained Mitoto.
Aneta Idiongo, the Chairperson of Kakuma Bee Social Integrated Farm said they are grateful for the Aquaculture Project and County’s donation. “Demand for fish is high, but production remains our biggest challenge,” she stated.
Other groups the team visited were; St. Jude Multi-Purpose and Vijana Twaweza Community-Based Organization in Kakuma.
By Peter Gitonga
