Vihiga: At least thirty fishmongers drawn from various markets across Vihiga received equipment to boost their businesses and promote the aquaculture value chain addition in the County. Each trader received items including a jiko, display box, cool box, frying spoon, umbrella, cap, apron, and frying pan to improve their operations and enhance the quality of fish sold to consumers. The traders were also trained on proper handling and storage of fish to ensure quality and food safety.
According to Kenya News Agency, the support was provided under the NORAD / ARNSA project, which has also been working with fish farmers across the county to improve aquaculture production. Throughout the project, farmers have been trained on good aquaculture practices and supported with fish fingerlings, feeds, and other essential inputs to enhance fish farming. Currently, a number of farmers across the county are still harvesting mature fish from their ponds, marking a significant milestone in the project and increasing the supply of fish to local markets.
The involvement of traders in the value chain is expected to provide smallholder fish farmers with a more reliable market for their produce, enabling them to increase their incomes while contributing to improved food security in the region. The County Government of Vihiga reiterated its commitment to supporting smallholder farmers and promoting sustainable agricultural practices in the county.