Vihiga County Governor Dr. Wilber Khasilwa Ottichilo on Monday toured several sites implementing the Norwegian Agency for Development Cooperation (NORAD) – Advancing Resilient Nutrition Sensitive Aquaculture (ARNSA) Project.
Dr. Ottichilo expressed satisfaction with the progress as the initiative nears completion.
The Governor began his inspection at Nyang’ori Boys and later visited Moi Girls Vokoli, where he lauded the work done so far.
In the two schools he was impressed by an Integrated Poultry–Fish–Vegetables Aquaculture System.
A model that uses poultry manure and leftover feed to fertilise aquatic plants in fish ponds, while nutrient-rich water from the ponds irrigates vegetables through sprinklers—reducing waste while increasing yields.
He later visited Kaimosi TVET where he assessed ongoing construction of fish kiosks where fish processing is expected to be done.
He praised the work at Kaimosi TVET, noting its significance in shaping the county’s youth earnings.
“This initiative is not just a project; it’s a commitment to youth empowerment, skills development, and economic transformation,” Governor Ottichilo said.
He encouraged students at the institution to take full advantage of the Nyota Project after completing their examinations, noting that the programme offers business loans to support young entrepreneurs.
During the visit, Kaimosi TVET leaders appealed to the Governor to fast-track capitation support, address infrastructure limitations arising from shared space with church partners, and equip workshops to enhance technical training.
The Governor pledged his continued support to ensure the request is addressed.
Governor Ottichilo also visited Mwitoko, where he met fish farmers who expressed joy over the positive impact the ARNSA project has had on their livelihoods. He encouraged them to remain committed to aquaculture.
“We started this project in different places so that people can benefit greatly. Now that you are approaching harvest, your focus should be on the market,” he said, emphasising the developmental value of the initiative.
County Executive Committee Member Julius Maruja thanked farmers for their dedication, reaffirming the county’s commitment to development and service delivery.
County Chief Officer Dr. Betty Mulianga highlighted additional gains from the project, including the revitalisation of the Mwitoko hatchery and the increased production of fish fingerlings.
She noted that plans are underway to transform the hatchery into a major training centre and college, complete with hostels and a dining hall.
Project Coordinator Wilson Munala advised farmers to plant soya and beans, which can be processed into affordable fish feed.
Munala, who has been instrumental in implementing the NORAD-ARNSA project on the ground, continues to guide farmers and institutions through the new aquaculture systems.
By Rose Wasike
