Nairobi, 26th October 2023 (Governor’s Press Service)
The National and County Governments have committed to collaborate to revitalize Lake Turkana economy.
Turkana leaders, led by Governor Jeremiah Lomorukai today engaged in a high-level meeting with the Cabinet Secretary for Mining, Blue Economy, and Maritime Affairs Salim Mvurya to discuss the partnership.
The meeting, held at the Liaison Office in Nairobi, highlighted the commitment of the government to diversify economic opportunities within Lake Turkana. To achieve this, the introduction of cage fishing methods was discussed as a strategy to boost the region’s economy.
CS Mvurya said the government will develop at least five modern landing sites equipped with facilities like cold rooms, creating a more efficient environment for fish storage and processing.
The County Government has agreed to enhance road network and infrastructure around the lake to facilitate economic growth. Governor Lomorukai said the county will allocate resources for these initiatives, including the creation of markets for lake products.
The leaders emphasized the need to establish an authority to manage Lake Turkana, ensuring its sustainable and equitable utilization for the residents of Turkana County. The meeting also discussed need to collect accurate collection of data on the lake’s resources.
The CS revealed that the Netherlands Embassy will provide financial support for experimental fishing in Lake Turkana, further enhancing the prospects for the region’s fishing industry. He said the has allocated Sh1.5 billion to this venture.
The National and County Governments partnership will explore initiatives meant to modernize fishing in Lake Turkana, making it a profitable venture.
As part of these discussions, the Cabinet Secretary committed to engage with Norwegian authorities to reinvigorate the fish factory in Turkana. He is also scheduled to visit Turkana County in November, accompanied by officers from the Maritime and Fishing departments, to concretize the development projects discussed during this significant meeting.
Leaders present were Protus Akuja (Loima), Woman Rep Cicilia Asinyen, Nicholas Ngikor Ngikolong (Turkana East), Emathe Namuar (Turkana Central) and MCA for Lodwar Township Ruth Kuya.
CS Mvurya was accompanied by Centre Director, Kenya Marine and Fisheries Research Institute, Project Coordinator, Kenya for Lake Turkana Baseline Study Dr. Kevin Obiero, Ag. Director, Capture Fisheries, Kenya Fisheries Service Jared Agano and Ag. Director, Fisheries and Aquaculture Development, State Department for Blue Economy and Fisheries Rebecca Muritu.
