Siaya County hosted the World Fisheries Day Celebrations at Lwanda K’Otieno Beach in South Uyoma Ward, Rarieda Sub-County. This year’s event was themed "Collaborative governance for blue economy transformation and sustainable investment in Fisheries." On the sidelines of the event, Governor James Orengo also witnessed the leasing of the Lwanda K’Otieno Mini Fish Processing Plant to VEMRIC Fish Processors. This onboarding of the strategic investor underscores his commitment to improve market access and enhance the livelihoods of the local community.
The Deputy Chief of Staff, in charge of Performance and Delivery in the Executive Office of the President, Hon. Eliud Owalo, who represented CS Ali Hassan Joho, emphasized the government’s commitment to the blue economy as a key driver of economic growth. “The theme ensures sustainable management and development of our fisheries and blue economy; hence, food and national security are a source of revenue and income to many and play a critical role in our economical heritage,” he stated. Governor Orengo echoed these sentiments, highlighting the importance of integrating community needs into sustainable development initiatives. The event was a vibrant showcase of culture and talent, with boat racing competitions energizing the crowd. The races celebrated the skills and dexterity of local fisherfolks while promoting a sense of community and pride in traditional practices.
Governor Orengo lauded the agreement as a game-changer for Siaya County.
“The blue economy takes a big role in the economy of the region, and it is a key pillar, 1/3 of Siaya is either the lake, water bodies, rivers and streams with the 2/3 which is dry land so we must leverage into the blue economy and know it can be done with the right decisions and the right investments. Next year, in March, we will have the Siaya International Investment Conference, and we have been talking to banks and different investors that are interested in expanding operations in Siaya County,” he remarked.
VEMRIC Fish Processors representatives pledged to provide innovative research and capacity-building initiatives to ensure the sector thrives sustainably. The blue transformation agenda is a global call to leverage marine and aquatic resources for sustainable development. In Kenya, fisheries contribute significantly to food security, employment, and export earnings, making it a vital sector for investment. However, challenges such as overfishing, pollution, and climate change threaten these gains. The Lwanda K’Otieno facility and the new partnership are critical steps in addressing these challenges. By integrating modern infrastructure, scientific research, and community involvement, Siaya County is setting an example of how collaborative governance can foster sustainable growth in fisheries. The Governor also took the opportunity to welcome all Siaya residents and the Luo Nation at large for the historic Piny Luo Festival, an event that showcases Luo culture and heritage that will be held at the Migwena Sports Center, in South Sakwa Ward, Bondo Sub-County.
This event was graced by the host Member of Parliament Hon. Dr. Otiende Amollo, Regional Commissioner Flora Mworia, Siaya County Assembly Speaker George Okode, Kenya Fish Marketing Authority Chairperson Martin Ogindo, LBDA Chairperson Dianga Waore, Government Delivery Unit Regional Representative Hon. Sylvance Osele, local MCAs led by the host MCA Hon. Michael Adialla, leaders of various stakeholder groups, and thousands of wananchi. The facility will improve fish quality, reduce post-harvest losses, and provide employment opportunities to the local community, especially women and youth.
As the sun set over Lake Victoria, the celebratory mood in Lwanda K’Otieno reflected the optimism and hope of a community ready to embrace a sustainable future. World Fisheries Day 2024 was not just a celebration but a powerful statement of the transformative potential of partnerships in the fisheries sector.