Gov’t Blows Sh1.6 Billion To ‘Count Fish’ And Wants More

The fish census project in Kenya with Sh1.6 billion allocation intended to assess fish stocks in the Indian Ocean, sparks debate to the public.

The funding was allocated for a detailed assessment to improve Kenya’s fisheries management and sustainability efforts with the aim of accurately estimate fish populations, particularly in Lake Victoria and coastal regions in order to manage the sector better and avoid overfishing.

The fish census was part of a government initiative launched in 2023 by the Ministry of Agriculture, Livestock, Fisheries, and Cooperatives, which was under the leadership of the former Cabinet Secretary, Mithika Linturi. This fish census was intended to address illegal, unreported, and unregulated (IUU) fishing activities while promoting sustainable practices within Kenya’s “blue economy” framework.

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The ‘blue economy’ refers to the sustainable use of ocean resources for economic growth, improved livelihoods, and jobs, while preserving the health of ocean ecosystems.

In Kenya, the blue economy focuses on harnessing marine resources, like fish, to boost economic development, improve food security, and create jobs, while addressing challenges such as illegal fishing and pollution.

However, this assessment has drawn criticism, particularly from members of parliament and the public. There are raised concerns over the high cost and demand accountability for the substantial expenditure. Members of the parliament were dissatisfied questioned the value for results from the assessment which were not presented. The ministry has been asked to submit detailed findings.

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Current minister of mining, Hassan Joho has defended the project stating that the project goes beyond counting fish and is part of a broader effort to understand Kenya’s marine ecosystem. He further explained that, the assessment is necessary for Kenya to engage with investors in the blue economy, as it provides crucial data for sustainable resource management. He highlighted that the report would help with zoning in the ocean and attract investments.

The ministry is seeking additional Sh600 million to further assess marine fish stock, at the time Ruto’s government is pledging austerity measures. However, the ministry of Mining and Blue Economy is defending itself that ‘counting of fish’ is a global practice that helps in better managing marine resources, despite failing to live up to its expectations by raising less that Sh50 million in revenue.