Homa bay: Vihiga County is set to highlight its growing commitment to the blue economy by showcasing the adoption of aquaponics farming systems during the upcoming Devolution Conference slated for later this month in Homa Bay. Speaking ahead of the event, County Director of Fisheries Daniel Otieno said the county has spotted aquaponics as a climate-smart, sustainable agricultural solution that integrates fish farming with soilless crop cultivation.
According to Kenya News Agency, the decision to spotlight aquaponics at the Devolution Conference aligns with Vihiga's broader agenda on environmental sustainability, youth empowerment, and food security. Otieno emphasized that this initiative demonstrates efforts to unlock the potential of the blue economy at the grassroots level.
The county is actively encouraging the integration of aquaponics systems in schools and Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) institutions to drive adoption and innovation. Otieno highlighted that the model effectively utilizes limited space and water, allowing residents to establish units even within residential areas.
The nutrient-rich water from fish ponds, particularly the urea, is recycled to fertilize crops, offering dual benefits in a closed-loop system. Otieno encouraged households to utilize available small spaces, emphasizing that land should not be a limitation, making this system ideal for both urban and rural setups.
Aquaponics is presented as both environmentally friendly and economically viable, providing a sustainable source of fish and vegetables. Otieno noted that the model uses significantly less water and land than traditional farming methods, creating economic opportunities, especially for youth and women groups, who will be trained to manage the system.
During the Devolution Conference, Vihiga County will offer a live demonstration of the aquaponics system and provide detailed explanations of its operations and benefits. The county government is partnering with local technical institutions, schools, and private sector players to promote the technology.
Demonstration units will be established at Mwitoko and Musinaka facilities, while a radio program on Vihiga FM will be used to educate the public on aquaponics practices. The system will focus on rearing Tilapia and growing traditional crops suited for the region.
County Project Coordinator for Fisheries Wilson Munala expressed confidence that the initiative will serve as a benchmark for other counties seeking to harness the blue economy for inclusive growth and climate resilience. The 2025 Devolution Conference is expected to attract governors, development partners, private sector actors, and civil society organizations for discussions on Kenya's devolution journey and future development priorities.