State mulls laws to stop illegal fishing

The government has reaffirmed its commitment to eradicate illegal fishing in Kenyan waters.

Addressing the press in Mombasa, Blue Economy and Fisheries Principal Secretary Betsy Njagi emphasised the government’s efforts to revitalise the fisheries sector aiming to enhance profitability and create wealth for the fisherfolk.

The PS highlighted a key legislative initiative- a bill currently before parliament seeking to amend the Fisheries and Management Act of 2016.

This amendment, she said, will turn around the fisheries sector to make it profitable and create wealth among the fisherfolk.

“One of the components we have discussed today is in the Fisheries and Management Act 2016. There is a bill in parliament where we will be working together with the parliamentary committee and the public to see how we can improve the fisheries sector,” the PS said, adding that the government has further proposed eight regulations  aimed at supporting the fishing community in the country.

The regulations that will cover among other aspects inland waters, marine waters beach management units, recreation regulations and levy trust fund, Njagi said will make it very difficult for the perpetrators of illegal fishing.

The ultimate aim she said is to grow the economy of the country by creating employment in the sector which has over the years suffered the wrath of illegal fishing as foreign fleets continue to exploit the resource-rich waters of the East African coast.

“Marine fisheries are crucial to food security and livelihoods in Kenya’s coastal communities.  With these regulations, we believe this will create employment and further ensure that there is food security in Kenya,” said the PS.