(Kwale) – The Kwale County Government has initiated the distribution of essential fishing equipment to local fishers, aiming to bolster food security and economic growth through sustainable fishing. The equipment includes modern fishing nets, boats with outboard motors, and safety gear, among other tools that are expected to improve the productivity and safety of small-scale fishermen in the county.
The county government’s recent distribution included a variety of fishing essentials: multifilament nets, motorized boats, cooler boxes, flares, GPS devices, life rafts, and life jackets. Kwale Governor Fatuma Achani noted that this initiative aims to help fishermen increase their capacity to undertake deep-sea fishing, turning fishing into a more profitable venture for local communities.
Governor Achani emphasized that these lifesaving appliances are critical for fishermen to handle possible emergencies at sea. She noted that improving safety and equipment will not only boost fish production but also enhance the incomes of the coastal artisanal fishing community.
“We are committed to empowering our coastal communities with modern tools to ensure they can engage fully in fishing activities that sustain local livelihoods and contribute to food security,” said Achani.
To further support sustainable fish production, the county has also begun developing aquaculture farms in remote areas away from the ocean. These farms, Achani added, have the potential to attract investment, scale up fish production, and create jobs in the region.
During an event held in Waa/Ng’ombeni Ward, Governor Achani was joined by Matuga MP Kassim Tandaza, Kwale Woman Representative Fatuma Masito, and the County Agriculture and Fisheries Executive, Roman Shera. The officials distributed the new fishing equipment to members of local Beach Management Units (BMUs), which play a vital role in overseeing fishing activities along the coastline.
“The provision of advanced equipment to our local fishers is essential for enhancing their livelihoods and stimulating the local economy,” Achani remarked. She stated that Kwale’s strategic location along the Indian Ocean presents significant opportunities for economic growth that should be utilized sustainably.
Achani urged beneficiaries engaged in both aquaculture and marine fishing to use the eco-friendly equipment responsibly to maximize its benefits for their trade and improve their standards of living. She also encouraged fishermen to practice sustainable fishing methods, which she described as necessary for protecting both fish stocks and the broader marine ecosystem.
Governor Achani noted that Kwale’s marine environment faces challenges, including climate change and the depletion of marine resources, which impact local fishing communities. She urged the community to avoid unsustainable practices that harm coral reefs and disrupt seabed ecosystems, emphasizing the importance of adopting advanced technology to support sustainable fishing.
Matuga MP Kassim Tandaza supported the county’s efforts to empower fishermen, noting that many coastal residents depend on fishing as their primary source of income. He added that the county government’s initiative aligns with long-term economic goals to sustain marine resources and foster economic growth.
Tandaza urged the local BMUs to ensure that the distributed equipment remains functional and well-maintained to increase fishing productivity.
Kwale Woman Representative Fatuma Masito echoed these sentiments, urging fishermen to use the new boats and equipment to enhance sea surveillance and protect marine resources from illegal fishing activities. This focus on surveillance aims to curb illegal fishing practices, which often contribute to resource depletion.
| Equipment Provided | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Multifilament Fishing Nets | Improve catch efficiency and productivity |
| Boats with Outboard Motors | Enable deep-sea fishing and access to larger fishing grounds |
| Cooler Boxes | Preserve fish freshness, reduce spoilage |
| Flares and GPS Devices | Enhance safety and navigation at sea |
| Life Rafts and Life Jackets | Provide essential safety for fishers |