Devolution of agriculture from the national to county governments has led to the slow implementation of fish pond projects in the country.
Agriculture Principal Secretary Micheni Ntiba said after devolution, the Agriculture ministry devolved staff, resources and functions to the counties, but the process was taking too long.
"It was expected that aqua-culture projects would slump after devolution because of the change in management. However, we hope the counties will continue to fund the projects," Mr Ntiba said.
Ntiba called on the governors to ensure that the fish-pond projects are adopted by farmers.
"Our role in the ministry is to support the counties through policy formulation, research and regulations, but the counties must take their responsibility of continuing where the national government left off," Ntiba said.
He said that fish farming was the fastest growing activity in most parts of the country and the Government would ensure quality seeds, feeds and markets for fish farmers.
The PS called on counties to utilise the 98 per cent potential of aquaculture to increase consumption of fish in the country.
"Fish farmers now have an additional 46 markets in the counties to sell their produces. The Government's role is to assist farmers increase their yield. An example is the introduction of trout fish in Mt Kenya and Mt Elgon rivers," Ntiba said.
Internationally, fish consumption per capita is 20 kilograms per person per year, while Kenyans were only consuming less than three kilograms per person per year.
Ntiba urged the private sector to partner with county governments and invest in extension services that offer advice to county farmers.
Ntiba was speaking at the Nyeri Agricultural Show of Kenya where he asked officials to involve the youth in the annual events.
The PS said the average age of a Kenyan farmer is 56 years, which means very few young people were engaging in farming activities.
"It's unfortunate the youth are not getting involved in farming, yet the country's food security depends on them," Ntiba said.
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