Nyanza: Fisher folk in Nyanza have expressed their approval of the 2026/2027 budget presented by Treasury CS John Mbadi, stating that it holds significant potential to enhance their livelihoods.
According to Kenya News Agency, the budget has allocated 2.1 billion for the Aquaculture Business Development Project (ABDP), which is expected to significantly support the aquaculture sector.
Tom Guda, chairman of the Beach Management Units (BMU) Kenya, highlighted the government’s efforts to collaborate with the fisher folk to promote aquaculture as a means to increase earnings in the sector. He welcomed the plans to improve fish landing sites, which is also part of the budgetary provisions.
Guda further pointed out that the allocation towards completing the Kabonyo Kanyagwal Fish Breeding Project is a crucial step forward. The project has received 578 million to ensure its completion and to provide necessary training and resources to the fisher folk. Additionally, the project has been earmarked to supply quality fingerlings, which will boost the aquaculture sector in Lake Victoria.
The budget also includes funds for the development of nine beaches within Lake Victoria, including Bumbe, Wich Lum, Asat, and Got Kachola. Guda expressed satisfaction with the government’s commitment, as 1.49 billion has been allocated for the completion and modernization of fish breeding sites.
However, Guda urged the government to increase funding for the Fish Levy Trust Fund to bolster local fish cooperatives, which number over 400, to ensure the efficient use of the allocated funds.
