Vihiga to establish new fish hatchery at Kaimosi VTC

Residents of Upper Vihiga are set to benefit from improved access to fish fingerlings following the launch of a new fish hatchery project at Kaimosi Vocational Training College in Shiru Ward.

The project, funded by the Vihiga County Department of Agriculture, seeks to bring fish fingerling production closer to local farmers and reduce reliance on the Mwitoko Fish Hatchery, which serves a wider area.

Speaking during the launch, Kaimosi Vocational Training College Principal Zaddock Munala welcomed the initiative, describing it as a transformative project for both the institution and the surrounding community.

“We fully support this project because it will benefit our students and the community at large. We also look forward to establishing a fisheries and marine training centre in the future. Let us work together in unity and solidarity to ensure its success,” said Munala.

He noted that students pursuing carpentry courses would gain practical skills by participating in the construction of the facility, which will consist of two fish ponds and a counting shed.

Munala further urged the contractor to ensure quality workmanship and complete the project within the stipulated timelines and standards.

Vihiga County Director of Agriculture Daniel Oketch said the hatchery would play a key role in boosting fish production in the county and encouraging more farmers to venture into aquaculture.

 According to Oketch, the facility will also serve as a practical training centre for students pursuing fisheries and marine technology courses, providing them with hands-on experience and technical skills in fish farming.

He expressed confidence that excavation works would be completed within a short period and called on the contractor to ensure the project is finalised before the end of the current financial year.

The hatchery project, which includes two fish ponds and a counting shade, is expected to enhance fish farming, improve the availability of quality fingerlings and strengthen vocational training opportunities at the institution.

The establishment of the hatchery has been attributed to the efforts of Shiru Ward MCA Bob Mwashi, who championed the initiative as part of efforts to enhance access to fingerlings and promote fish farming among residents.

Once completed, the facility is expected to contribute to food security, create economic opportunities for local fish farmers and support the growth of aquaculture in Vihiga County.

By Rose Wasike