Busia: Sh8 million windfall for local fishermen

Fishermen at the shore of the Lake Victoria in Mulukoba Beach last year. [File, Standard]

Fishermen have received a lion’s share of a Sh20 milion conditional grant.

The money was released by the county government and World Bank through the Kenya Climate Smart Agriculture Project.

The fishermen took home Sh8 million which they intend to spend to increase the number of cages in Lake Victoria.

Governor Sospeter Ojaamong’s administration bought cages last year and handed them over to fishermen in Bunyala and Samia sub counties.

The objective, according to Agriculture executive Moses Osia and Chief Officer Richard Achiambo was to empower fishermen and protect Lake Victoria.

Following the introduction of modern fish farming, fishing in the lake was restricted to three times a week. Last year, the first harvest of the fish in cages was carried out and Sh3 million was realised.

The fishermen under their Beach Management Unit Sacco spent Sh1.4 million to support needy but bright students to join Form One.

Each of the 214 beneficiaries received Sh7,000 fees. Speaking during the issuing out of the cheques to various groups yesterday, Ojaamong said the county was committed to ensuring fishermen are empowered.

“We are committed to improving agriculture. It;s encouraging that fishermen can now benefit from modern fish farming methods,” said Ojaamong.