Eliye – 21 November 2024 (Public Communication and Media Relations)
Turkana County joined the rest of the world in commemorating World Fisheries Day by Lake Turkana at Eliye, Kangatotha Ward.
The event, themed “Collaborative Governance for Blue Transformation and Sustainable Investments in Fisheries,” was presided over by Deputy Governor Dr. John Erus and his Marsabit counterpart, H.E. Solomon Gubo. The event also launched the Sustainably Unlocking the Economic Potential of Lake Turkana Programme.
The five-year program, led by the World Food Programme in collaboration with UNESCO, the county governments of Turkana and Marsabit, and other key stakeholders, aims to sustainably unlock the economic potential of the desert lake.
Addressing participants, Deputy Governor Dr. Erus called for more investment and collaboration in infrastructural development of the fish sector.
“The fishing sector along Lake Turkana is faced with numerous challenges, hence the need to invest in structures such as upgrading BMUs and cold storage systems for efficiency and to improve production,” he said.
Dr. Erus further acknowledged the support of various actors towards the development of the fishing industry in the county. He revealed that a stakeholders’ meeting would be convened to discuss ways of capacity building for BMUs along the lake through vocational training centers.
Highlighting the recent conflict between fishermen and Kenya Wildlife Service Rangers, Marsabit Deputy Governor Solomon Gubo called for concerted efforts and interventions to address the challenges in line with the President’s directive on conflict resolution. He also called for unity among fishermen in Turkana and Marsabit Counties.
WFP Deputy Country Director, Sonkoh Baimankay, appreciated the Turkana and Marsabit Counties leadership led by the Governors towards the realization of the program.
“The Program will not only unlock the economic potential of Lake Turkana but will also enhance the food security of vulnerable populations in the environs of Lake Turkana in the face of climate change,” Sonkoh said.
As part of the activities to mark the day, key stakeholders showcased their products as locals participated in boat and raft racing competitions.
During the event, Dr. Erus also presided over the distribution of fishing gear comprising 12,000 twines, 28,800 floaters, 30,000 hooks, 9,600 Manilla ropes, and 15 pieces of cooler boxes that will benefit more than 10,000 fisherfolk and special groups along the lake.
The event was also addressed by UNESCO Country Representative, Louise Haxthausen, and County Executive for Agriculture, Livestock Development and Fisheries James Wangiros.
Rt. Hon Speaker Christopher Nakuleu, MCAs, County Chief Officers, County Staffs, and stakeholders representing various partners also graced the occasion.
