The Kabonyo Regional Fisheries and Aquaculture Service and Training Centre in Kisumu County, a key project to revive Lake Victoria’s dwindling fish stocks, is 30 per cent complete.
Overfishing, pollution, invasive species, and climate change have decimated Lake Victoria’s fish populations, threatening livelihoods and food security for over two million people.
Launched in November 2024, the centre aims to restore the lake’s ecosystem and bolster the blue economy.
Deputy Chief of Staff Eliud Owalo, alongside Lake Region Economic Bloc CEO Victor Nyagaya, inspected the Nyando-based facility on Thursday.
“The government is committed to completing this project within 30 months,” Owalo said, highlighting its role in strengthening the region’s fisheries.
Funded by Kenya and Hungary at USD 9.997 million, the centre will feature a Nile Perch Technology and Innovation Centre, an Aquaculture Resource Centre, and a Kenya Fishing School.
It will produce seven million fingerlings quarterly—tilapia, catfish, and carp—to support lake restocking and aquaculture. Kenya’s 2021 aquaculture output was 21,076 metric tons, far below the 2030 target of 350,000 metric tons.
Nyagaya noted the project’s regional impact, benefiting Siaya, Homabay, Migori, and Busia.
The centre will train fisherfolk, promote sustainable practices, and support fish exports via the upgraded Kisumu International Airport.
Aligned with Vision 2030 and UN Sustainable Development Goals, the centre will enhance food security, economic growth, and climate resilience.
Owalo urged the contractor, Vitafort Agro Ázsia Zrt, to ensure timely completion.