Why you should expect more omena on your dining table

People have started liking fish. Even in places where fish was not traditionally consumed, the commodity is becoming quite popular,” he said.

JKUAT has initiated fish projects in the country to support its consumption as well as supporting livelihoods in the country. 

According to the varsity’s plan, the silver cyprinid fish, known as omena, is set to increase its consumption and support more livelihoods living in the Lake Victoria region. 

“Fish is a highly perishable product, and fisherfolk can lose up to 50% of landed catch depending on the weather and storage conditions,” said Prof Nelson Ojijo from the Department of Food, Science and Technology. 

“Only 30% of the harvested omena is used for food as the rest is either wasted or utilized to produce animal feeds.”

“Deployment of hybrid greenhouse fish drying units that use solar and biomass, in different areas to dry fish in about three hours has played a major part in reducing post-harvest losses,” he added.  

According to KFMA board chair Martin Ogindo, the consumption of fish in areas traditionally known not to take fish could be a message that more fish is needed.