Turkana County, Kenya – Fishermen in Turkana County, specifically from the Lake Turkana area, have received a significant boost with the donation of fishing gear and equipment worth Sh157 million. This contribution, facilitated by the USAID-NAWIRI project, is set to benefit approximately 1,200 fisherfolk in the region.

According to Kenya News Agency, the project director, the donation includes essential fishing items like twines, manila ropes, fishing floaters, and hooks. The initiative focuses on various Beach Management Units (BMUs) along Lake Turkana, including Lomekwi, Lobolo, Napeget, and Moruong’or. This effort goes beyond merely providing equipment; it aims to enhance the capacity of BMUs in sustainable fish production and management practices.

Abdile highlighted that the primary goal of the USAID-NAWIRI project is to empower local communities along Lake Turkana and improve their livelihoods. He noted that the initiative would also boost fish trade, thereby creating employment and investment opportunities for the residents of Lomekwi and surrounding areas.

The equipment handover ceremony was attended by several notable figures, including the county Director of Fisheries Adengo David, Director of Administration Joram Ewoton, and Kennedy Opiyo, an Assistant Director at the State Department for Blue Economy and Fisheries.