Lodwar, May 26, 2025 – (Public Communication and Media Relations)
The County Government, through the Department of Trade, Gender, Youth Affairs and Tourism in Collaboration with Trademark Africa, held a consultative meeting on women and youth economic empowerment in the fisheries sector.
The initiative is part of a five-year project aimed at enhancing inclusive access to fisheries opportunities across the region.
The meeting brought together key stakeholders from Kenya Fisheries Services, Kenya Export Promotion and Branding Agency (KEPROBA) and MicroSave Consulting Limited.
The discussions centered around how the fisheries sector can serve as a driver of economic empowerment for women and youth in Turkana.
The project is anchored on four key pillars, reducing barriers in market linkages, increasing fish trade in the region, promoting community resilience, and strengthening the Pan-African programme through inclusive participation.
Speaking during the meeting, County Executive Committee Member (CECM) for Trade, Gender,Youth Affairs and Tourism Roseline Aite, reaffirmed the County’s dedication to supporting inclusive economic programs.
“We are committed to creating an enabling environment where women and youth can fully participate and benefit from fisheries trade. This project will strengthen market access and promote cross-border fish trade that directly benefits our communities,” the CEC Aite said.
She further noted that the blue economy offers a key opportunity for long-term economic growth in Turkana.
“Harnessing our water bodies for sustainable fisheries and aquaculture not only improves livelihoods but also supports food security, boosts household income, and diversifies the County’s economy,” She added.
County Chief Officer for Trade Josephine Tangarae, highlighted the importance of partnerships in achieving sustainable outcomes.
“Through this collaboration, we aim to build resilient fisheries value chains that empower local entrepreneurs and connect them to regional markets,” CCO Tangarae stated.
Trademark Africa representative Maureen Wanyonyi, affirmed their commitment to ensuring that the project promotes equity and sustainable development in the fisheries sector.
“We will work closely with the County government and other partners to ensure the project addresses the unique challenges faced by women and youth while also building lasting structures that enhance competitiness and inclusivity in fisheries,” Wanyonyi emphasized.
Stakeholders agreed to prioritize community-driven strategies that align with the County’s development goals and foster regional trade in fish products.
The initiative is expected to transform Turkana’s fisheries landscape and open up new opportunities for marginalized groups through training, infrastructure support, and improved access to local and regional markets.
Present at meeting also were, Willis Oyango ( Kenya Fisheries Service), Susanne Njeri ( AWFBER), Benedect Alubisia (Trademark Africa) and Wilson Ejie ( Deputy Director Trade).
