FAO, State partner to empower Coast

Food Agriculture Organisation (FAO) and the Government have launched an initiative aimed at benefiting selected areas in the Coastal region. The Blue Growth Initiative (BGI) aims at promoting productive and sustainable fisheries and aquaculture sectors. FAO has, in collaboration with the State, developed two projects costing Sh100 million from the BGI to support food security and nutrition, poverty eradication and healthy oceans within Coastal ecosystems.

Acting Cabinet Secretary for Agriculture, Livestock and Fisheries Adan Mohamed and FAO Representative in Kenya Dr Luca Alinovihe, launched the initiative in Mombasa early this week. "We can sustainability develop mariculture through improving the governance and management of the aquatic eco-systems, conservation of biodiversity and habitats and most importantly, empower vulnerable communities engaged in small-scale production to act as resource users and stewards' noted Dr Alinovi. CS Mohamed Adan said particular attention will be on empowering small-scale and rural or artisanal fishermen and fish farmers who contribute consistently to the seafood supply chain, but do not have the capacity to optimise their farming or fish catch.