Small scale fish farmers at Bonje Beach Management Unit in Kwale county are looking forward to a positive future as county government donates 7200 marine tilapia fingerlings to improve fish production.

The fingerlings were stocked in four mariculture fresh water fish ponds for the Mborode Fish Pond Self Help Group.

The Sh2.95 million project is funded through the Kenya Marine Fisheries Socio-Economic Development.
The project is expected to boost Kwale fish production in the wake of rising demand and decline of fish due to climate change.

The local farmers will be provided with the tools and resources needed to establish and manage productive fish ponds.

The initiative is designed to help local farmers integrate modern aquaculture techniques and offer tailored support to enhance fish production, improve income stability, and promote sustainable farming practices in the region.

Governor Fatuma Achani said that the fish pond project will significantly benefit local economies, while also enhancing food security and promoting environmental stewardship in Kwale.

“By fostering sustainable aquaculture practices and improving fish production, the initiative is set to create economic opportunities, ensure a stable food supply, and support ecological balance in the region,” she said.

Achani said the project represents a crucial step in empowering communities by offering sustainable income-generating opportunities.

She said local farmers will gain access to resources and training that will enable them to build a more stable and profitable livelihood, ultimately contributing to their economic well-being and self-sufficiency.

The programme is also part of efforts to diversify and improve coastal communities’ livelihoods through freshwater tilapia farming and reducing overreliance on marine resources.

Achani said her administration is dedicated to enhancing the lives of citizens through empowerment programs that promote growth, development, and entrepreneurial success.

She said the county aims to ensure that farmers achieve self-sufficiency and thrive through the development projects.

The governor said the fish will take a short period to mature and that farmers will harvest frequently ensuring food basket and good market for their fish.

Achani encouraged farmers to take care of the project for sustainable livelihoods.