Fishermen on Achich Beach on Lake Victoria, Homa Bay County, have received a major boost after receiving an assortment of modern fishing equipment from the national government through the Ministry of Mining, Blue Economy and Maritime Affairs.

The equipment consisted of reflector jackets and fishing nets, which are expected to enhance the fishing experience, increase productivity and provide long-term economic support for the local fishermen who depend on Lake Victoria for their livelihoods.

Cabinet Secretary Mining, Blue Economy and Maritime Affairs Ali Hassan Joho, who oversaw the distribution underlined government’s commitment to improving the lives of local communities through targeted economic initiatives.

“As a government, we must be intentional about the steps we take to uplift the people of Homa Bay and bring them to the same level playing field as other counties,” said Joho during the event.

Joho who was speaking in Achich Beach in Homa Bay where he opened newly constructed Achich Beach Management Units offices, pledged government’s support for the local fishermen. He revealed that Ksh300 million has been set aside for procuring rescue boats with the Kenya Shipyard having been awarded the contract to deliver the vessels.

The minister was accompanied by Principal Secretary Betsy Njagi and the Homa Bay County Governor Gladys Wanga and senior national and county government officials.

Joho cautioned law enforcement officers, especially the Kenya Coast Guard, against arresting fishermen caught using illegal nets. Instead, he called for a collaborative approach and recommended that such incidents be referred to relevant departments in his ministry.

“We are here to support our people. It does not make sense to criminalise their activities when we can provide the right tools. Let us know. We will step in with the right equipment,” he said.

Joho underscored the importance of fishing to the local community, describing it as the primary source of income for many families in the region.

“Fishing pays school fees and feeds families. It is not just a job but a way of life for our people and so it is our responsibility to create a supportive and peaceful environment for them to carry out their fishing activities,” he added.

The cabinet secretary said that plans are underway to erect nine landing sites in the region alongside the distribution of fish cages, fingerlings and feeds to the fisher-folk to promote aquaculture.

Governor Gladys Wanga thanked the national government for the equipment and commended Joho’s efforts in addressing the challenges facing the fishing community.

She said she anticipated fruitful development discussions between President William Ruto and ODM leader Raila Odinga as the county prepares to host the much-awaited Madaraka Day celebrations.

• A Tell Media / KNA report / By Sitna Omar

Mining, Blue Economy and Maritime Affairs Cabinet Secretary Hassan Ali Joho distributes assorted fishing gear to Beach Management Units in Achich beach Homa Bay County.

CS Blue Economy Ali Hassan Joho in the company of Governor Gladys Wanga watches a wrestling match at Achich beach within Homa Bay.