A collaborative initiative between Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine, the Kenya Marine and Fisheries Research Institute (KMFRI), and the International Livestock Research Institute (ILRI) is providing smallholder fish farmers in Kenya with the tools and knowledge to improve biosecurity practices and strengthen disease surveillance. This effort aims to address key challenges in the fisheries and aquaculture sector, which plays a critical role in the country’s economy and food security.
Enhancing Biosecurity Practices
For smallholder fish farmers in Kenya, particularly those operating in cage systems in Lake Victoria, adopting effective biosecurity measures is crucial. These practices are designed to reduce the risk of disease outbreaks, which can devastate stocks and threaten the livelihoods of thousands of farmers. Proper disposal of dead fish, disinfection of equipment, and strategic siting of cages are among the key biosecurity measures recommended. By adhering to these practices, farmers can significantly lower the risk of introducing pathogens and limit their spread across farms.
Aquaculture is the fastest-growing segment of the global food system, producing more than half of the world’s fish supply. In Kenya, this sector contributes 0.5% to the national GDP and supports around 60,000 people directly while benefiting an estimated 1.2 million people indirectly. In 2023, aquaculture recorded over 31,000 tonnes valued at Ksh10 billion, largely due to the expansion of cage culture systems. These figures highlight the sector’s importance not just for food security but also for economic development.
Practical Training and Hands-On Learning
The initiative, supported by the USAID-funded Feed the Future Innovation Lab for Fish, focuses on empowering smallholder fish farmers with practical knowledge and tools. It features hands-on training sessions across key counties, including Kisumu, Siaya, Busia, Homa Bay, and Migori. These sessions cover essential topics such as biosecurity practices, proper siting of cages, management of cage nets, and the early recognition of clinical signs for tilapia diseases. The training also includes multilingual pamphlets that provide visual guides on best practices for fish farming management, such as dead fish disposal, stocking of fingerlings, and promoting water circulation within the cage environment.
Dr. Fiorella, a researcher involved in the project, emphasized the interdisciplinary approach of Cornell researchers who integrate social sciences and veterinary medicine to address disease monitoring and response systems in partnership with KMFRI and ILRI. The goal is to equip farmers with actionable practices that reduce losses and sustain their livelihoods while safeguarding the aquatic food system. “By studying fish health and collaborating with farmers in Kenya, we aim to empower them with the knowledge necessary to maintain healthier stocks and more productive farms,” she noted.
A key component of the program was the involvement of women leaders, who addressed critical issues such as prevention of fish deaths. Through these partnerships, the initiative supports women at every stage of the value chain, from cage establishment and proper fish husbandry to financial training that enhances their business capabilities. This holistic approach not only ensures economic independence but also helps dismantle cultural barriers, creating equitable opportunities for all.
Leveraging Advanced Science to Tackle Disease
The initiative also links with ongoing laboratory analysis and advanced research at ILRI’s facilities. By leveraging genomic sequencing and antimicrobial resistance expertise, ILRI is supporting the identification of pathogens and the development of strategies to mitigate disease risks. Samples collected from the field are analyzed at ILRI’s labs, providing vital data for improving productivity among cage farmers. Dr. Ekta Patel, a scientist on the project, remarked, “ILRI is committed to conducting research that delivers practical solutions to benefit farmers. By strengthening laboratory capacity, we can enhance disease surveillance and improve outcomes for these farmers, ensuring their sustainability in the long term.”
The collaboration between KMFRI, ILRI, and Cornell University exemplifies a successful partnership in advancing aquaculture practices. Dr. Christopher Aura, Director of Freshwater Systems at KMFRI, noted the importance of these efforts in improving fish safety and biosecurity. He emphasized that proper cage siting and adherence to best aquaculture practices are crucial for achieving better biosecurity and sustainable results for farmers.
As the demand for animal-source foods continues to rise, initiatives like this one are essential for improving fish health and strengthening the aquaculture sector in Kenya. By equipping smallholder fish farmers with the knowledge and tools necessary to manage disease and improve productivity, this collaborative initiative represents a significant step towards sustainable growth in the fisheries and aquaculture sector, ultimately benefiting not only the farmers but the broader Kenyan economy.