Marsabit Locals Turn to Fish for a Fresh Start

In Summary

• Fish farming gains traction in Marsabit, a drought-hit region of northern Kenya.
• Over 100 locals trained in aquaculture, shifting from pastoralism to fish farming.
• Initiative produces 13.5 tonnes of tilapia monthly, boosting incomes and nutrition.
• County supports fish farms and an ultra-modern fish processing factory in Loiyangalani.
• Program counters climate shocks, reducing reliance on livestock in arid areas.
• Cultural barriers to fish consumption are fading as demand grows.

In Marsabit County, a sun-scorched region of northern Kenya battered by prolonged droughts, fish farming is emerging as a transformative solution for pastoralist communities facing food insecurity and economic hardship. Once reliant on cattle, camels, and goats, locals are turning to aquaculture to diversify livelihoods, with over 100 residents trained in modern fish farming techniques since 2023, according to the Marsabit County Department of Fisheries.

The initiative, supported by the county government, USAID’s Feed the Future Kenya Livestock Market Systems Activity, and the World Food Programme (WFP), has seen farmers like Dida, a former pastoralist in North Horr, thrive. “From my fish business, I’ve supported my seven brothers and paid for my father’s medical treatment,” Dida said, projecting earnings of KSh 125,000 from his next sale. High demand from hotels and individuals underscores the growing acceptance of fish in a region where it was once considered taboo.

Marsabit’s fisheries officer, Sostine Wanjala, highlighted aquaculture’s role in climate adaptation. “Residents see fish farming as a long-term resilience solution, not just relief,” he said. The county’s Songoyo Enterprises, a key fish farm, produces 13.5 tonnes of tilapia monthly, surpassing local needs and supplying an ultra-modern fish processing factory under construction in Loiyangalani. The farm also produces fingerlings to restock Lake Turkana, benefiting 200 people through supply contracts and training.

The region, part of Kenya’s arid “alarm stage” counties, has faced severe droughts, with over 2.6 million livestock deaths reported in 2024, devastating pastoralist livelihoods. Fish farming offers a buffer by using lined ponds to store rainwater, which also supports small-scale irrigation during dry spells. However, challenges like costly water pumping during extended droughts persist, requiring innovative solutions like solar pumps.

WFP’s Albert Mwambanu emphasized the broader impact. “Aquaculture tackles climate crises, enhances food security, boosts local economies, and improves nutrition,” he said. The program aligns with Kenya’s efforts to diversify livelihoods in drylands, integrating fish farming with pastoralism to sustain communities.

Farmers like Halima Guyo in Loiyangalani noted cultural shifts. “Fish was foreign to us, but now it’s a source of pride and income,” she said. The county plans to expand training and market linkages by 2026, aiming to make Marsabit a model for sustainable aquaculture in arid regions.