Uasin Gishu County Government’s investment in fisheries is paying off, with Kesses Dam now producing market-sized Nile tilapia weighing more than 2 kilogrammes amid the growing potential of fish farming in Uasin Gishu.
The impressive harvest is part of the County Government’s efforts under Governor Jonathan Bii to strengthen fisheries through dam restocking, farmer training, extension services and improved access to markets.
Kesses Dam had earlier been stocked with 20,000 fingerlings, which have since multiplied and grown to marketable sizes, providing the community with an opportunity to earn income while improving access to nutritious food.
Speaking during the Fish for Health initiative at the County Fisheries offices, CECM for Agriculture, Agribusiness, Livestock Development and Fisheries Dr Sam Kottut said the County Government is committed to making fish farming an important source of food, nutrition and household income.
How many community dams are in Uasin Gishu?
Director of Fisheries Cosmas Lang’at said Uasin Gishu has more than 350 community dams managed by registered community fish groups. He said the County continues to support the groups through extension services, training and guidance on dam management, harvesting and marketing.
Deputy Director of Fisheries Edna Kemei said the County has restocked community dams with 520,000 fingerlings. She said fish production from dams currently ranges between 60 and 80 tonnes annually, generating an estimated KSh21 million in revenue.
She added that Fisheries officers are training communities on fish production, harvesting, water safety, value addition and marketing.
“When groups request assistance, the County facilitates harvesting and links them with markets, with proceeds from the sales going back to the respective community groups,” Kemei said.
The County is now focusing on increasing production by supporting community fish groups with better fishing gear and stronger marketing skills, in line with Governor Bii’s agenda to turn fisheries into a bigger source of food, jobs and income for residents.
