Fishermen in Naivasha have harvested over 500 metric tons of fish this year despite the three months ban, which was imposed by the government to allow rejuvenation of fish at the lake.
While addressing journalists at a Nakuru hotel, the Director for Fisheries in Nakuru Martha Mukira said that the fishermen have appreciated the ban, because they have realised its importance, which has enabled them to harvest the highest amount of fish in just eight months.
She said the positive effect of the ban has transformed the minds of fishermen and politicians who criticised the ban viciously since after the move, they were amazed at the multiplication of the fish at the lake.
“The same people who were against the ban are now on our side. They are suggesting that the ban be imposed on an yearly basis, since they catch more fish within a short time compared to before when they used to spend a lot of time and come out with almost nothing,” said Mukira.
“We are getting concerned that the youth are not taking much interest in fishing and yet majority of the fishermen have attained retirement age,” added Mukira.
The Director acknowledged the resources, which the government has invested in fishing, especially the building of ponds, which are now very popular in the county.
She added that a number of farmers are abandoning dairy keeping for fishponds, since they are easier to maintain and the market is wide.