Nyong’o calls for revival of Sh2.5b fisheries project

Kisumu leaders are pushing for revival of the Sh2.5 billion Kabonyo Kanyagwal Fisheries and Aquaculture Research and Training Centre project.

Led by Governor Anyang Nyong’o (pictured), the leaders have called on the National government to make good its promise to construct the multi-billion shilling project in Nyando constituency.

President William Ruto has previously hailed the project, saying it would boost food and nutritional security as well as fisheries research in the region.

“I want to earnestly appeal to the National government not to abandon this viable project which is set to create more wealth and employment opportunities for our people,” said Nyong’o.

He said the fisheries project will boost the domestic economy and improve millions of livelihoods who derive their lives directly or indirectly from the fish industry.

The proposed facility was to facilitate training, research, innovation and promote best practices in fisheries and aquaculture through field demonstrations and incubations.

Other components of the project were to include a Nile Perch Multiplication Centre, Aquaculture Resource Centre and Kenya Fisheries Training School.

Research centre  was envisaged to produce seven million fingerlings annually to boost food and nutritional security.

Project site

Roads leading to the project site were also set to be upgraded to bitumen standards further opening up the Kabonyo-Kanyagwal area for development.

Nyong’o spoke when he met Interior Principal Secretary Raymond Omollo in Kisumu.

Yesterday, the governor pledged to work with the National government henceforth so that the latter’s projects are not derailed.

“I want to assure the PS and President Ruto that my administration is ready and will from now going forward, work closely with your various State departments to undertake serious development projects here,” he said.

Inaugural flagship

Proposed Fisheries Centre is one of the inaugural flagship projects approved by the Cabinet of President Ruto immediately after he was sworn into office after the 2022 General Election.

Omollo said the Head of State had embarked on a transformative journey through the Bottom-Up Economic Agenda, to boost food and nutritional security.

The PS said the project would therefore not be abandoned, contrary to fears by the Kisumu county boss and many residents.

“The President means well and all he needs is your relentless support to boost his morale to do better for you,’’ Omollo said.

Nyong’o had also questioned the delayed completion of the Mamboleo-Kakamega road as well as Chemelil-Muhoroni- road.