Homa Bay County Governor and ODM party chairperson, Gladys Wanga, has called for urgent attention to the growing insecurity faced by fishermen in Lake Victoria. Speaking at Ngeri Primary School in Suba South constituency, Wanga urged President William Ruto and Ugandan President Yoweri Museveni to prioritize discussions on the security of fishermen during the upcoming Piny Luo festivals in Siaya County.
The insecurity in the lake, particularly in the shared waters between Kenya, Uganda, and Tanzania, has become a major concern for the local fishing community. Governor Wanga emphasized the importance of collaborative efforts between the governments of Kenya and Uganda to address these challenges. She highlighted that the safety of fishermen is essential for the sustainability of their livelihoods, as many families in the region depend heavily on fishing and fish farming for income and food security.
In response to these challenges, the county government of Homa Bay has unveiled a significant initiative to support local fishermen. A total of 12 fish cages, valued at KSh 30 million, have been introduced to boost fish farming in the region. Each cage has the capacity to hold up to 35,000 fish, providing a substantial opportunity to increase the productivity of fish farming and improve the economic status of fishing communities.
The Beach Management Unit in Homa Bay has expressed optimism about the new initiative, noting that the fish cages are expected to play a critical role in enhancing the output of the local fishing industry. With better fish farming infrastructure, fishermen can now rely on a more sustainable and secure method of fish production, which will not only safeguard their incomes but also promote sustainable practices within the sector.
As the Piny Luo festivities draw closer, there is mounting anticipation that regional leaders will take concrete actions to ensure the security and prosperity of the fishing community. The upcoming discussions between the two heads of state are seen as a crucial step in addressing the growing concerns and fostering a safer environment for fishermen on Lake Victoria.
This initiative, combined with government attention to security, promises a brighter future for the fishermen and communities that depend on Lake Victoria’s vast resources.
