Mining, Blue Economy, and Maritime Affairs Cabinet Secretary Ali Hassan Joho has established a 12-member task force to review the contentious Fisheries Management and Development (Aquaculture) Regulations 2024. The move aims to address issues raised by stakeholders and foster sustainable aquaculture practices in Kenya.
The task force comprises representatives from the Ministry, the Council of Governors (CoG), the Lake Victoria Aquaculture Association (LVA), and other key sector players. Wala Joseph, Director of Fisheries and Aquaculture in the Ministry of Mining, Blue Economy, and Maritime Affairs, will lead the government representatives in the team. Other government officials include Assistant Directors of Fisheries Roy Aseka and John Kwanya, and Legal Counsel Leonard Bett.
The industry representatives include LVA Board Secretary Pete Ondeng, Aquaculture Alliance of Kenya (AAK) CEO Stanley Mworia, Victory Farms Chief Development Officer Caesar Asiyo, Africa Blue CEO Albert Altena, African Women Fish Processors and Traders Network (AWFISHNET) Vice President Suzanne Kuria, Rio Farm Limited CEO Angela Odero, Legal and Governance Advisor Victor Odhiambo, and LVA Board Member Atieno Otieno.
The task force’s primary objective is to collect stakeholder feedback, deliberate on their concerns, and derive practical recommendations to address the issues that led to the suspension of the regulations. The suspended regulations proposed a Ksh50,000 licensing fee for all aquaculture investments in public waters and a 5% ad valorem fee on fish landed. Stakeholders had criticized the regulations, arguing they were developed and gazetted without adequate consultation.
LVA Board Chairman Ochieng’ Mbeo commended the CS for forming the task force, noting its potential to resolve contentious issues in the sector. He emphasized the importance of collaboration and accountability in building a robust blue economy in Kenya.
“The establishment of this task force is a significant step toward addressing stakeholder concerns. LVA remains committed to working with the government and other partners to create policies that support sustainable aquaculture growth and economic empowerment,” Mbeo stated.
The blue economy, a vital sector for Kenya’s economic development, holds immense potential for job creation and food security. By revisiting these regulations, the government aims to ensure they promote sustainable practices while balancing the interests of all stakeholders. The task force’s recommendations are expected to set a solid foundation for the future of aquaculture in the country.
This initiative underscores the government’s commitment to fostering inclusive policymaking and advancing Kenya’s blue economy.
