Narok: Meru County is now riding the wave of a remarkable blue economy revolution after grappling with the collapse of its fish farming industry in 2013. Since the launch of the Aquaculture Business Development Programme (ABDP) in 2019, the region has seen a significant transformation in its aquaculture sector, bringing renewed hope and prosperity to aquatic farmers.
According to Kenya News Agency, the collapse in 2013 saw over 1,000 farmers abandon fish farming after producing 300 tonnes of fish annually and had nowhere to take them due to a lack of market within the region. However, the ABDP introduced a structured approach with a three-tier system to classify farmers based on their production capacity. Level one comprises farmers producing less than 100 kilograms annually, Level two includes those producing 100 to 500 kilograms, while Level three consists of farmers producing over 500 kilograms.
‘By categorizing farmers in such levels, we are able to address their unique needs effectively. This ensures equitable distribution of resources and targeted interventions,’ said Mr. Peter Kimathi, the County’s aquaculture Director. The ABDP programme since then has supplied critical resources, including 1.6 million fingerlings, fish feeds, predator kits, polylines, and harvesting tools. It has also trained more than 3,000 farmers and employed more than 410 youth through enterprise initiatives, enabling them to venture into fish farming.
Eliud Kiriinya, ABDP County coordinator, noted that as much as they are encouraging farmers to venture into fish farming, they were also educating them on the value addition of their products. ‘Additionally, the farmers have been trained on fish value addition and how to formulate homemade fish feeds, helping to reduce costs and improve productivity. We are not only equipping farmers with resources but also building their capacity to enable them to succeed,’ said Mr. Kiriinya.
The program also extends its impact to aquaculture schools, benefiting children in institutions such as Makutano in Igembe and Makandune in Imenti Central through feeding programs. To address the critical challenge of market access, the Ng’onyi Fresh Fish Market and the Kanyakine Fish Factory are set to be launched, providing farmers with sustainable platforms to sell their produce locally and beyond. ‘Creating sustainable markets ensures that farmers remain motivated and confident in aquaculture as a viable livelihood. These facilities will revolutionize the way fish is marketed and distributed,’ said Dr. James Kirimi Gitonga, a Fishery Technician.
The program’s efforts have significantly boosted food security and nutrition in Meru County by restocking dams with 23,000 fingerlings and promoting the farming of diverse fish species, including Nile Tilapia, African Catfish, Trout, and Common Carp. ‘Aquaculture is not just about income. It’s about improving the health and well-being of our communities. Fish farming provides a sustainable source of protein and economic empowerment,’ said Dr. Kirimi.
Despite its successes, the program faces challenges, particularly with staffing as only 13 technicians oversee operations across eight of the county’s nine sub-counties. Nonetheless, the team remains committed to transparency and delivering results. ‘We operate with a monitoring and inspection committee to ensure transparency and accountability. Every farmer receives the support they need, and resources are distributed equitably,’ said Mr. Kiriinya.
According to Mr. Kimathi, the county government has played a pivotal role in supporting the ABDP by providing essential infrastructure such as refrigerated vans, boats, and harvesting nets. These contributions have streamlined operations and improved efficiency. The county, once unfamiliar with fish farming, is now experiencing a social and behavioural shift as residents embrace aquaculture for its economic and nutritional benefits. With annual production rising to 300 tonnes and innovative initiatives underway, the ABDP is a testament to the transformative power of collaboration and strategic planning.
‘Aquaculture in Meru is no longer just a livelihood but a revolution. We have turned challenges into opportunities and we are building a brighter future for our communities,’ said Mr. Kimathi.