Jackdaughters Women Turn to Integrated Fish Farming to Beat Food Insecurity in Lodwar

Lodwar (Loborot), April 21, 2026
(Public Communication and Media Relations)

After years of struggling with food insecurity, women from the Jackdaughters Group in Lodwar have embraced integrated fish farming to feed their families and generate income from surplus produce.

According to the group’s chairlady, Jackline Kiyonga, the initiative combines fish and crop farming on the same land while using the same water resources to maximize productivity and income.

“Because crops mature in weeks and fish in months, the system gives our farmers staggered harvests and steady year-round income,” Kiyonga explained.

On their two-acre farm in Loborot, the group practices mixed farming by raising fish, growing crops, and keeping goats.

The diversified approach helps cushion members against losses when drought affects crops or when fish and livestock prices drop.

Founded in 2013 by 15 women, the group has since grown to 50 members as the farm’s success continues to attract more women seeking sustainable livelihoods.

Kiyonga noted that the project took shape after months of aquaculture training that sparked her interest in fish farming.

Following an assessment, the County Fisheries Department confirmed that the group had met all the requirements to start fish production.

Going forward, the group is seeking support to expand the farm to five acres, install solar panels, and drill an additional borehole to boost fish and crop production.

During a visit to the farm, Chief Officer for Fisheries and Aquaculture Hon. Peter Ikaru praised the initiative, describing it as a model to be adopted for its resource efficiency with zero waste.

“The Loborot farm is one of the best examples of integrated fish farming. It applies a circular economy model where fish waste fertilizes crops and crop scraps help feed fish. This system maximizes resources with zero waste,” Ikaru said.

He added that the farm will serve as a demonstration site for circular farming and green energy use in areas with groundwater, helping address food insecurity and malnutrition across the county.

Ikaru also called on sector stakeholders to work with the county government to scale up such projects so that local communities can benefit.

County Aquaculture Officer John Bett said the department continues to provide technical support and extension services to the Jackdaughters Group.

Bett noted that several aquaculture projects across the county have been identified for support from partners and the county government.

Despite challenges such as the spread of Prosopis juliflora, the group has already earmarked land for more than 10 additional fish ponds. They are also planning to establish an on-site fish eatery to process their produce, increase income, and create employment opportunities.

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13TH-14TH AUGUST 2024