Residents of Uasin Gishu County on Wednesday joined the global community in celebrating the World Fisheries Day at Chepsiria in Kuinet/Kapsuswa Ward, Soy Sub County.
The event, commemorated annually on November 21st, centered around this year’s theme: “Collaborative Governance for Blue Transformation and Sustainable Investments in Fisheries.
The event served not only as a celebration but also as an opportunity to foster partnerships among stakeholders in the fishery sector.
While presiding over the event, Uasin Gishu Deputy Governor, Evans Kapkea, highlighted several interventions aimed at promoting aquaculture in the region. He announced plans to distribute fingerlings, pond liners, harvesting nets, fish feeds, and other necessary infrastructure to support local fish farmers.
“Our goal is to commercialize fish farming due to its vast potential in the blue economy,” Kapkea stated.









He emphasized the significant contribution of Kenya’s fishery sector to the nation’s socio-economic development, noting its role in enhancing food and nutrition security, creating employment opportunities, and facilitating trade and development.
This year’s World Fisheries Day celebrations focused on several key areas: Blue Transformation Action to create a tangible difference in the lives of fish farmers and all others involved in the industry, Support for Small-Scale Producers in initiative includes restocking fish ponds and providing fish feeds to local fish farmers to boost production.
The Deputy Governor emphasized the importance of involving young people in the fisheries sector to improve their livelihoods and ensure their participation in the growth of this vital industry.
IDG Kapkea also advised farmers to establish viable Cooperative Savings and Credit Organizations (SACCOs) to enhance their financial stability and collaboration. He also mentioned that the county government has installed cold storage facilities at Kimumu Bahati Market, which remain underutilized and could be an excellent resource for local fish traders.
Area MCA, Rebecca Chepchirchir, expressed her support for the initiatives aimed at empowering local fish farmers and highlighted the potential for growth within the sector.
On his part, Chief Officer for Agriculture Mr Elphas Kesio reaffirming the importance of collective effort in promoting the fishing industry and ensuring sustainable practices that benefit both the environment and local communities.
Director of Fisheries Edna Kemei challenged the community to diversify their sources of income, among them fish farming.
“There are several untapped potentials in relation to fish farming and I want to challenge the youth to venture into the same since its lucrative business,” said Kemei.
Directors Philip Biama (Veterinary), Abraham Kiptanui (Livestock) were also present during the event.