Vihiga County Secures NORAD Grant to Boost Aquaculture and Empower Local Farmers

The Vihiga County government has secured a grant of Sh69,760,000 from the Norwegian Agency for Development Cooperation (NORAD) to enhance aquaculture.

During a memorandum of understanding signing event between the National Government and Vihiga County Government on Tuesday, Cabinet Secretary for Mining, Blue Economy and Maritime Affairs, Hassan Ali Joho, emphasized the importance of aquaculture to the nation’s economy. He highlighted that fish farming would create employment opportunities for many youth and women, fostering economic growth.

Joho encouraged more people to engage in fish farming as it not only enhances food security by providing sufficient food for consumption and surplus for sale but also meets the global demand for aquaculture products. He mentioned the opportunity to export fish to countries like the Democratic Republic of Congo, which has a high demand for Kenyan tilapia.

He also urged fish farmers to produce their own fish feeds locally to reduce costs and boost production.

Vihiga County Governor Dr. Wilber Ottichilo expressed gratitude to the Cabinet Secretary and NORAD for the grant, stating that local fish farmers are capable of utilizing the funds efficiently. He requested additional support in the future, highlighting the county’s potential in aquaculture.

Governor Ottichilo mentioned that the county has a fish hatchery and an aquaculture training center in Mwitokho to support farmers and residents. He also noted that 3,000 youths have been trained in agribusiness, and 175 youths have become Agri-preneurs to drive aquaculture growth in the county. Additionally, 450 fish farmers across the county have been identified as beneficiaries of the grant.

Amuganda Hughlogia, a young fish farmer and grant beneficiary, thanked the National Government, County Government, and NORAD for their support, committing to enhance aquaculture.