The Nakuru County government has been urged to replenish tilapia species in Lake Naivasha to boost commercial fishing.
Lake Naivasha Boat Owners Association Chairman David Kilo says that the lake is on the verge of losing tilapia species due to illegal fishing from unlicensed fishermen.
He said lack of proper fishing polices have been the cause of scarcity of tilapia species
“The lake is short of tilapia which has been caused by fishing small fingerlings by unlicensed fishermen. These unlicensed fishermen do not use the required nets to harvest their catch,” said Kilo.
Kilo said that tilapia is the most-sought species and its scarcity would affect the livelihoods of many residents who depend on the lake to earn a living.
“Fishing supports the livelihoods of more than 10,000 families and the scarcity of tilapia will destabilise many families,” said Kilo.
He said that the association has set aside over Sh 1,000,000 to help in the revival the tilapia project.
Kilo was speaking on Wednesday at Lake Naivasha during a tour to access the viability of tilapia project with local leaders, youth and members of the association.
Kilo said that with devolution of functions of fisheries, the county government should be mandated in supporting fishermen.
Lakeview MCA Wanango Wanyoike said that the Nakuru County government has set aside Sh 9,000,000 to boost commercial fishing and the fund is yet to be released.
The ward leader said that he will push for the release of the fund to fast -track the operations of the fishermen.
“When the county Assembly resumes in February, I will push for the release of the funds to help cope with the challenges facing the fishermen,” said Wanyoike.