Lake Victoria Aquaculture Forum Overview

The Lake Victoria Aquaculture Forum 2024, held on October 17th, 2024, at Sarova Imperial Hotel in Kisumu, brought together various stakeholders from across the aquaculture value chain. This event served as a key platform for discussions aimed at promoting sustainable fish farming practices and enhancing economic opportunities within the Lake Victoria Basin.

Addressing Aquaculture Challenges in Lake Victoria

The forum focused on tackling critical challenges facing the aquaculture sector, including declining fish stocks in Lake Victoria, environmental degradation, and market access. Participants discussed the impact of upwelling events on fish populations, as well as the challenges posed by cheap fish imports that undermine local producers. Additionally, fish kills were highlighted as a significant concern, affecting both livelihoods and the sustainability of aquaculture in the region.

Industry experts, policymakers, and representatives from the private sector engaged in discussions about leveraging innovative solutions and fostering cross-border collaboration among countries bordering Lake Victoria to effectively address these pressing issues.

Empowering Women and Youth in Aquaculture Initiatives

A significant highlight was the emphasis on empowering local communities, particularly women and youth, to engage in aquaculture. Women were given a platform to share both their successes and the challenges they encounter in the business.

Youth participation was particularly noteworthy, with young entrepreneurs illustrating their involvement in initiatives such as the Aquaculture Barn, which operates a Recirculating Aquaculture System (RAS) and employs youth. This initiative exemplifies how young people are creating employment opportunities for their peers.

Exploring Opportunities for Investment in Aquaculture

During the forum, participants explored opportunities for investment, value addition, and market expansion, reinforcing aquaculture’s role in the blue economy. Key topics included standardized fish pricing, streamlined licensing, and affordable feed.

They also focused on improving hatchery operations for better-quality fingerlings, enhancing breeding and genetics, and ensuring reliable ingredients for aquafeed. Community engagement remained central to the discussions, with growth opportunities identified across various production stages, supporting a comprehensive approach to sustainable development.

Fostering Collaboration for Sustainable Growth

The forum provided a crucial platform for networking and partnerships, uniting investors, development organizations, local entrepreneurs, and representatives from government agencies, including the Kenya Marine and Fisheries Research Institute (KMFRI). Together, they engaged in meaningful discussions to devise strategies for driving sustainable growth in the aquaculture sector.

As Kisumu positions itself as a key hub for aquaculture in East Africa, this collaboration is more important than ever. The insights and connections made during the forum represent a significant step toward building a resilient and profitable industry.

To learn more about the Lake Victoria Aquaculture Forum, visit here