By Swaleh
On September 24, 2024, officials from the Kenya Fisheries Services (KFS) conducted a significant operation in Homa Bay County, destroying illegal fishing nets valued at over KSh 4 million. This initiative aims to combat the declining fish populations in Lake Victoria, attributed largely to the use of these illegal nets.
The Urgency of Conservation
Christine Etiegni, the KFS deputy director for the Kisumu region, emphasized that the operation is crucial for preserving the lake’s ecosystem. Recent statistics highlight a worrying drop in fish catch within Homa Bay—from an average of 100,000 metric tons to just 39,000 metric tons monthly. “To ensure the lake remains valuable, it must be protected,” Etiegni stated, urging local fishermen to support these conservation efforts for the sake of their livelihoods.
Multi-Agency Crackdown
The destruction of the nets followed a multi-agency crackdown aimed at curbing illegal fishing practices that threaten the sustainability of local fisheries. Homa Bay County Director of Fisheries George Okoth noted that the decline in fish numbers has led to increasing conflicts among fishermen, underscoring the need for sustainable fishing practices to restore both the lake’s health and the communities dependent on it.
Addressing Illegal Fishing Practices
Homa Bay County Commissioner Moses Lilan pointed out that the widespread use of illegal fishing gear prompted the KFS to confiscate the nets during recent raids. “Our goal is to curb illegal fishing, which has severely impacted the fish population in Lake Victoria,” he explained.
This ongoing operation is a critical step toward ensuring a balanced ecosystem and promoting responsible fishing methods among the local fishing community.
