Kakamega Unveils Fresh Fish Market to Boost Aquaculture and Farmers’ Incomes

By Hilda Atika

Kakamega fish farmers have a reason to celebrate following the official opening of the Kakamega Fresh Fish Market in Masingo by Governor FCPA Fernandes Barasa and Maritime and Blue Economy CS Hon. Ali Hassan Joho. The market, developed through a partnership between the County Government and the Aquaculture Business Development Program (ABDP), marks a significant step in advancing Governor Barasa’s agenda for food security and wealth creation.

The facility is expected to enhance fish preservation, improve business management, and serve as a central aggregation hub for local fish farmers. Located in Shieywe Ward, Kakamega town, the market will offer key services such as fish bulking, preliminary processing, and retailing—initiatives aimed at increasing farmers’ earnings while addressing post-harvest losses.

Unlocking Kakamega’s Aquaculture Potential

Speaking at the launch, Joho, who is also the ODM party leader, emphasized the National Government’s commitment to fully harnessing Kakamega’s aquaculture potential to transform livelihoods. “This project is for the people of Kakamega. You have full control over managing the market and reaping the benefits of your hard work,” Joho reassured.

He further announced that the National Government will inject more funds into the fish market and prioritize aquaculture development through initiatives such as supplying fingerlings, liners for drainage prevention, and predator protection measures to ensure optimal fish production. “Strengthening aquaculture in Kakamega County is a strategic step toward enhancing food security and creating wealth for our farmers,” Joho stated.

Expanding Aquaculture Investments

In addition to launching the fish market, Governor Barasa and CS Joho toured the Lutonyi Fish Factory, reinforcing their dedication to empowering fish farmers through improved production, processing, and marketing systems. Joho also presided over the issuance of Aquaculture Business Development Programme (ABDP) grants in Kakamega.

The grants, worth Ksh 128 million, will benefit 15 counties, with Kakamega receiving Ksh 18.7 million—a crucial boost to the region’s aquaculture sector. Governor Barasa extended his appreciation to the IFAD-supported ABDP program for its instrumental role in the initiative and acknowledged the National Government’s collaboration in unlocking the full potential of aquaculture in Kakamega County.