The government, through the Kenya Marine and Fisheries Research Institute (KMFRI), has stepped up the production and distribution of prawn fingerlings to support fish-farming groups across the Coast region.
Prawns, one of the key fish species produced by the research institute, mature quickly and are now being supplied to farmers who previously struggled to access fingerlings, often resorting to risky searches in rocky ocean habitats.
KMFRI, through its National Mariculture Resource and Training Centre (NAMARET) hatchery in Shimoni, Kwale County, has so far produced thousands of prawn larvae and distributed them to three groups in Kwale and Kilifi counties, aiming to support all prawn-rearing groups in the region.
Speaking on Friday during the handover of more than 3,000 fingerlings to the Umoja Self-Help Fisher Group in Kibokoni, Kilifi County, KMFRI officials said the expanded hatchery operations are part of broader efforts to scale up aquaculture production and strengthen sustainable livelihood opportunities for coastal communities.
The Coast Region Director of Mariculture, Dr Antony Nzioka, said the hatchery is currently producing three prawn species: the Indian White, Monoceros, and Giant Tiger prawn, which take about four months to mature.
“We are targeting groups with experience in prawn farming because they have long struggled to access fingerlings. We are now helping them obtain quality fingerlings from our hatchery to support their production,” he said.
KMFRI Director General, Dr Paul Orina, explained that the fingerling production and distribution initiative is part of the institution’s mandate to ensure farmers have access to high-quality seed stock derived from scientific research.
“We conduct research within our systems and then offer extension services to farmers. Once we confirm that our seed performs well in the field, we provide it to the farmers. It must be tested on-site so farmers can see how it grows,” he said.
Dr. Orina added that the expanded hatchery operations will help bridge the gap caused by seasonal fishing and mitigate the high cost of protein sources such as meat, which many low-income households struggle to afford.
Experts note that demand for prawns is rising both in local markets where they remain relatively affordable and in the hospitality industry, which offers a significant market opportunity for small-scale farmers.
The strengthened hatchery system is expected to reduce dependency on dwindling wild prawn stocks while promoting environmentally responsible aquaculture practices.
By Jackson Msanzu
