Aquaculture Business Development Programme - ABDP

CS Hassan Ali Joho and PS Betsy Njagi accompanied by area deputy governor and mps engaged with BMU members on the existing Asat Beach in Seme and Ogal Beach in Kisumu West landing site projects earmarked for construction as part of the Aquaculture business development programme initiatives.This initiative will boost fishing communities along Lake Victoria and unlock the Blue Economy's potential!

Abdp wrapped up its annual Stakeholders Review Workshop on a high note, celebrating shared experiences and awarding top-performing counties for excellence in production and quality data.

The 4th ABDP Annual National Review Workshop hosted by ABDP Nyeri county. The theme of this year's event is 'Aquaculture for improved livelihoods - The next frontier'.
The ceremony was graced by PS's representative, Mr. Daniel Mungai Director General Kenya Fisheries Service. In attendance were the National Program Coordinator, Program Steerling Committee, Agriculture CECMs, Trade and Cooperatives CECMs, Chief Officers, various stakeholders, and selected beneficiary farmers from the 15 counties.

ABDP 4th Stakeholder Review Workshop.

Venue: Nyeri County
Theme: Aquaculture for Improved Livelihoods - The Next Frontier.
Date: 26th -27th June

Stream us live on Facebook

🐟🌙 Happy Eid al-Adha from the Aquaculture Business Development Programme! 🌙🐟

This festive season, let's celebrate with the gift of health and wealth through sustainable fish farming. Enjoy a delicious and nutritious meal with your loved ones.

Happy Madaraka Day! 🇰🇪 As we celebrate the strides our nation has made since gaining self-governance, we also recognize the importance of sustainable development in our communities.
At the Aquaculture Business Development Programme (ABDP), we are committed to promoting 'Fish for Health and Wealth,' ensuring that our aquaculture sector thrives and contributes to the well-being of our people.

Misheck Muthomi, from Buuri Sub County, Meru, started as a potato and livestock farmer. During Kibaki's regime, he switched to fish farming through the Economic Stimulus Programme. Before joining the Aquaculture Business Development Programme (ABDP), Misheck struggled with dry land and a lack of community support.

In 2019, ABDP trained him in aquaculture and provided a pond liner, fish pellets, and fingerlings. He successfully harvested and sold tilapia, earning 75,000-90,000 KES. Encouraged, he expanded to catfish farming, eventually earning 240,000 KES and constructing more ponds.

Despite expensive fish feeds, Misheck learned to supplement with dark w**d, earning 40,000 KES monthly. His success has positively impacted his family and community, offering consultancy services and employment. Misheck plans to buy a fish pelleting machine and encourages others to try aquaculture for its benefits over livestock farming.

The Programme is thrilled to announce the delivery of essential laboratory equipment to our lead implementing partner, Kenya Fisheries Service- Fish Inspection and Quality Assurance Laboratory in Kisumu.

The consignment included

1.Portable Microbiological Water Testing Kits:
2.Precision Weighing Balances:
3.TLV Portable Testing Kits: A groundbreaking tool for diagnosing Tilapia Lake Virus,
4.Rotary microtome:used for microscopic examination

This milestone is part of our ongoing efforts to enhance fish quality and safety

Deadline Extended!

Great news! The deadline for submitting proposals for competitive grants to expand the aquaculture value chain in ABDP implementing counties is now June 4, 2024! Use this extra time to perfect your application. 🐟

Join us on May 20th for National Aquaculture Day! This year's theme is:

"Investing in Climate-Smart Aquaculture for Prosperity."

Let's come together to support sustainable practices that ensure food security, reduce poverty, and promote national growth.

MACHAKOS COUNTY
a) Charles Iriri, Matungulu Sub County, Matungulu West
Charles is a versatile fish farmer cultivating both tilapia, catfish, and ornamental fish. With limited space, he manages six raised fish ponds. Charles initially utilized regular greenhouse papers and structures to establish his operations.

Challenges before:
Charles faced several challenges when he started fish farming. Initially, he lacked expert knowledge in fish farming, received limited support from the local community, and was unaware of the benefits of using pond liners. Additionally, his greenhouse structures required frequent repairs, adding to his operational difficulties.

ABDP Support:
Charles's journey in fish farming took a positive turn when he was identified as a beneficiary by ABDP through County Extension Fisheries Officers who came to sensitize him about fish farming. Through ABDP, Charles received comprehensive training on various aspects of fish farming, including fish handling, fish feed formulation, value addition, and fish production.
To monitor his progress, Charles conducts monthly sampling from his raised tanks, yielding fish weighing between 400 grams to 1.2 kilograms. Since starting, he has successfully harvested four times, demonstrating the effectiveness of his methods. Charles prefers using greenhouse technology for his raised tanks because it provides consistent temperatures ranging from 23 to 29 degrees Celsius, which accelerates fish growth compared to open-air technologies. With this technology, Charles can achieve a harvestable size of 350 grams in just five months, whereas open-air culture methods take around eight months. This efficient approach has significantly improved his fish farming operations. From the fish proceeds he has also dug two earthen ponds which he is yet to stock in the coming few weeks.
Impact to community and family
Thanks to ABDP's support aimed at reducing poverty and enhancing food security and nutrition, Charles has successfully sustained his family through the consumption of fish, significantly improving their nutrition. Moreover, Charles has addressed the issue of limited access to fish in the local community by making it more readily available, thereby eliminating the need to travel long distances to markets. In addition to benefiting his own household and community, Charles has extended his impact by empowering 20 individuals in his community. He has achieved this by providing training on pond construction and pond management, equipping others with the knowledge and skills needed to thrive in fish farming. Charles's commitment to sharing his expertise underscores his dedication to fostering economic empowerment and sustainable agriculture within his community.
Charles actively promotes his fish farming enterprise through social media platforms like Facebook and Instagram, leveraging these channels alongside word-of-mouth referrals to reach customers effectively. Additionally, he adds value to his products by selling fried fish, providing a convenient and appealing option for his customers. By engaging in marketing and value addition, Charles not only expands his customer base but also enhances the overall appeal and accessibility of his fish products, contributing to the success and sustainability of his business.

Future aspirations:
Charles is committed to championing food security and aims to expand his impact by establishing a large hatchery to supply high-quality fingerlings to other farmers. From the proceeds from his four successful harvests, Charles has already initiated a free-range hatchery and stocked an impressive quantity of fingerlings—60,000 for catfish and 80,000 for tilapia.
Reflecting on his journey, Charles emphasizes that success in fish farming is not solely about scale but rather about passion, proper planning, and decisive action. He encourages aspiring farmers to approach fish farming with dedication and strategic thinking, indicating the importance of commitment and proactive measures in achieving success in this field. Through his endeavors and valuable advice, Charles exemplifies the potential for impactful contributions to food security and sustainable aquaculture.

b) Katunge Kimeu, Yatta Sub county, Kithimani Location
Katunge Kimeu is a dedicated member of the Kithimani Aquaculture Youth group, focusing primarily on fish feed production. At her home, she manages three ponds.

ABDP Support and training:
Katunge Kimeu was recognized as a youth champion by ABDP and underwent training where she became a Trainer of Trainers (TOT). She first learned about ABDP through her county extension fisheries officers and was selected to participate in the program. Through ABDP's training, particularly in Start and Improve Your Business (SIYB), Kimeu identified a significant gap in farmers' access to quality fish feeds. To address this gap, she began culturing azolla and Black Soldier Fly (BSF). Kimeu sells 1 kg of azolla to other farmers at KES 800 and cultures BSF from farm waste, which she uses to feed her fish and poultry. She also sells 1 kg of BSF for KES 1000 on good days. Kimeu utilizes the water drained from her ponds to irrigate her tomato farm, which is also integrated with various fruits such as oranges, pawpaws, avocados, and mangoes. This sustainable approach not only optimizes water use but also enhances productivity by diversifying her aquaculture and agricultural activities.
Impact on community and Family
Kimeu has created employment opportunities for youths in her area by employing them to assist in waste collection for BSF manufacturing, farm management, and fish feeding. The proceeds from fish feed sales enable her to support her family's needs, including food and school fees. Drawing from her training and experience with ABDP, she trains at least 2 clients per week, charging KES 1000 per head for fish feed production sessions. Kimeu lives by the motto "Dirty hands, clean money" through her innovative approach to producing BSF and empowering others in her community.

Future aspirations:
Kimeu is eager to expand her venture in fish feed production and continue training more people on the benefits of fish farming. She encourages fellow fish farmers that anything is achievable with a clear understanding of their goals and actions. Kimeu's commitment to knowledge-sharing and innovation exemplifies the potential for success in aquaculture through dedication and expertise.

KIAMBU COUNTY
a) Bonface Mutunga, Thika sub county, Ngoriba ward
Bonface Mutunga, a fish farmer in Kiambu County, previously worked as a mason. Unfortunately, he was involved in an accident that affected his spinal cord, resulting in a disability that left him unable to continue working in his previous occupation.

ABDP Support and impact:
He came to know about ABDP from a friend who had joined a fish farmers group in the region. Through the group, Bonface Mutunga learned about ABDP and was subsequently selected as a beneficiary. He received training on pond construction, fish feeding, grow-out production, and fish handling through the program. ABDP, supported him by providing a pond liner, predator net, and fish feeds. With the assistance of some youths, Bonface Mutunga dug his pond and stocked it with 1000 tilapia fingerlings to commence his fish farming activities.
Bonface emphasizes the importance of partial harvesting in his fish farming operations, using the proceeds to cover his medical expenses and supplement his wife's income. Additionally, he uses the earnings to pay for his children's school fees and renovated his house and bought a goat.

Bonface sells his fish to local community members, ensuring access to fresh fish for the area. Additionally, his family consumes fish regularly, contributing to improved nutrition within his household.
Bonface utilizes water drained from his fishpond to irrigate his kitchen garden and cassava farm. He pumps water from a nearby stream to be used in the pond, ensuring efficient use of resources on his farm.

In addition to fish farming, Bonface cultivates azolla after realizing that purchasing quality fish feed was expensive and inconvenient due to the distance from his farm and the market. By growing azolla, he supplements his fish feeds, reducing the amount of money spent on purchasing fish feeds. Bonface aims to increase his pond capacity to 2 or 3 ponds and expand his azolla farming on a larger scale to further reduce feed costs.

Future aspirations:
Boniface plans to venture into value addition, learn black soldier fly (BSF) culturing, culture catfish, and restock his ponds to enhance his fish farming operation.

b) James Kiru Gatarwa, Gatundu North, Chania Ward. “ Disability is not a barrier to success”
James Kiru, an individual living with a disability, is a member of Gachuka Fish farmers and learned about ABDP through his group. Gachuka Fish farmers was formed in February 2022. Before joining ABDP, James primarily engaged in livestock and poultry farming.

ABDP and support:
After joining ABDP, James received training on pond construction, fish handling, fish feeding, and participated in GALS training (Gender Action Learning System). ABDP supported him with a pond liner and 1000 tilapia fingerlings. From his first harvest, James successfully harvested 800 fish at 8 months, with the smallest weighing 350 grams. He earned KES 60,000 from selling the fish, which he used to construct another pond and stock it with 1000 catfish fingerlings. Additionally, James used part of the money to cover school fees for his children and meet other household needs. He also purchased a cow from the fish proceeds in August last year. James emphasizes that his family also benefits from consuming the fish, improving nutrition within the household.
James efficiently manages water resources by pumping water from a nearby stream to his farm. After using the water for fish farming, it is drained and used to irrigate his kitchen garden, where he grows arrowroots. Income generated from selling arrowroots is used to purchase fish feeds, ensuring the sustainability of his fish farming venture. Additionally, James operates two raised tank ponds, each constructed from an oil tank and holding 500 catfish fingerlings. These innovative approaches highlight James's dedication to fish farming and sustainable aquaculture practices.

Future aspirations:
James Kiru encourages other interested farmers to consider fish farming, highlighting its relative ease compared to livestock and poultry farming. He plans to expand his operations by constructing more ponds and intends to start formulating and growing fish feeds such as dark w**d and azolla. James expresses gratitude to ABDP for the support that has enabled him to achieve success in fish farming. Thanks to his training and experience, James has also trained two of his children in fish farming. His daughter now owns her own earthen pond, and his son is preparing to construct and stock his pond in the coming months. James's commitment to passing on his knowledge and expanding his venture demonstrates his dedication to the success and sustainability of fish farming within his community.

Transforming Communities Through Fish Farming: Harrison Karanja's Story

Harrison Karanja, a dedicated fish farmer from Kimana Ward, Loitokitok Sub County, and a proud member of the Kwetu Youth Group. Harrison embarked on his fish farming venture during Mwai Kibaki's regime, inspired by the Economic Stimulus Program aimed at revitalizing the Kenyan economy post the 2007–2008 crisis. Despite the challenges faced due to the lack of quality fish feeds and seeds, Harrison's determination led him to seek innovative solutions.

ABDP Support and Impact:

Harrison's journey took a transformative turn when he learned about ABDP through county extension fisheries officers. Selected as a youth champion, he underwent comprehensive training in aquaculture practices and participated in the SIYB (Start and Improve Your Business) program. As a trainer of trainers in his county, Harrison has shared his knowledge, empowering farmers within his community.

With support from ABDP, Harrison received a pond liner and 1000 tilapia fingerlings. He cultivated these fish for seven months, incorporating dark w**d, sweet potato leaves, BSF (Black Soldier Fly), and fish pellets into their diet. The results were remarkable—Harrison successfully harvested 800 pieces valued at KES 100 each.

Significant Impact:

The proceeds from Harrison's fish sales enabled him to establish a kitchen garden, cultivating sukuma wiki, spinach, and African nightshade (managu), selling 100 kilograms of vegetables per week valued at KES 4000. Additionally, the drained water from his liner pond irrigates the kitchen garden, ensuring sustainable farming practices.

Harrison's dedication extends beyond his farm. He hosts training sessions on successful fish farming and integrated farming techniques, benefitting interested farmers in his community. By hiring at least three individuals for pond and kitchen garden management, Harrison creates employment opportunities and fosters local economic growth.

Looking ahead, Harrison plans to establish a mini free-range hatchery to supply fingerlings and formulate local feeds to address transportation challenges. He encourages fellow farmers to explore diverse opportunities within the fish value chain, from frying and brokering to transportation, unlocking avenues for growth and income generation.

Harrison Karanja's story exemplifies the transformative impact of sustainable aquaculture, showcasing how dedication and innovation through programs like ABDP can empower communities and drive positive change.

Driving Change Through Fish Farming: Samuel Njenga's Inspirational Story

Meet Samuel Njenga from Kajiado West, Kiserian, a visionary fish farmer and member of Darubini Fish Farmers. Samuel's dedication to aquaculture has been instrumental in overcoming challenges and embracing opportunities within the aquaculture industry. Samuel's farm has seen significant growth over the years, marked by innovative techniques and sustainable practices. He actively engages in sharing knowledge with fellow farmers, contributing to community development and food security. Samuel's commitment to aquaculture reflects a passion for sustainable farming and the transformative impact it can have on livelihoods. As he continues to expand his operations and share his expertise, Samuel exemplifies the positive outcomes achievable through perseverance and dedication in fish farming. Samuel has 3 ponds; 1 liner pond culturing wolffia that has 28% protein content , 1 concrete pond growing dark w**d that has 50 % protein content , and an earthen pond for his fish.

Challenges Before ABDP Support:

Before receiving support from ABDP, Samuel faced several challenges in his fish farming venture. One major obstacle was his lack of knowledge about fish farming practices. Without adequate expertise in this field, Samuel struggled to effectively manage his farm and optimize production. Additionally, he encountered difficulties in sourcing quality fingerlings, which are essential for successful fish farming. The absence of reliable information on suitable fish feeds further complicated his efforts, impacting the growth and health of his fish stock. These challenges underscored the critical need for training and support in aquaculture, highlighting the transformative impact that initiatives like ABDP can have on aspiring fish farmers like Samuel.

ABDP Support & Impact:

Samuel Njenga learned about ABDP when the program's extension officers actively sought out farmers to empower in fish farming. Recognizing the potential benefits, Samuel was selected as a beneficiary and received comprehensive training, including feed formulation techniques. As a result, he now cultivates and produces organically grown feeds using alternative sources such as dark w**d, azolla, and wolffia plant. In addition to training, Samuel was supported with a pond liner and 1000 tilapia fingerlings. However, the fingerlings provided were mixed species, leading to varied results in his harvests. Over time, Samuel has successfully harvested three times, with recorded weights of 500 grams, 350 grams, and 700 grams for the fish produced. From his records at least 600 fish weighed 1 kilogram when harvesting. These experiences highlight Samuel's journey in fish farming and the impact of ABDP's support in improving his practices and outcomes.

Significant Change & Future Aspirations:

Following the training he received, Samuel Njenga has successfully cultured azolla, dark w**d, and wolffia, expanding his aquaculture operations to include two ponds—a nursery pond and a breeder pond. Utilizing these resources, Samuel has sold fish to the local community and other fish vendors, generating proceeds that have allowed him to make significant investments. Notably, Samuel has acquired a solar system valued at KES. 177,000 that powers aeration and general utilities at the pond, contributing to sustainable operations. Additionally, the income from fish harvesting has supported his family's basic needs. Samuel further uses the pond water for irrigation purposes, benefiting his maize crops. Samuel also engages in poultry farming(150 chickens), selling poultry and related products, which in turn funds the management of his fish ponds. This diversified approach indicates Samuel's approach to farming and highlights the integration of his farming activities.

Consultancy & Community Impact:

Samuel shares his expertise by offering consultancy on hatchery management, successfully guiding three local farmers in adopting his knowledge. Looking ahead, Samuel aims to expand his ponds in the future to boost fish production and further contribute to sustainable aquaculture practices within his community. His commitment to sharing knowledge and expanding shows his dedication to advancing aquaculture and supporting fellow farmers in their ventures.

Happy mother's day to all the incredible mothers nurturing not only their families but also our aquatic communities. We celebrate you today and every day.

KISII COUNTY
*Making change: George's Triumph in Aquaculture Despite Disability*
a) George Mike Nyamboro

George Mike Nyamboro, a resilient fish farmer living with a disability, who overcame challenges to transform his aquaculture venture with the support of the ABDP program.

Pre-ABDP Challenges and Transformation:

Before joining ABDP, George faced predator challenges, theft, and lacked aquaculture knowledge. Through ABDP, George received extensive trainings in fish farming techniques, financial literacy, and pond management. With support of 1000 fingerlings and predator net from ABDP, George now manages three ponds with catfish and tilapia, showcasing his commitment to sustainable aquaculture. George did not loose morale in fish farming and he restocked the pond for the second time.

Challenges and Major Impact:
Despite setbacks like herbicide contamination from unknown people, George salvaged 374 fish and earned KES 54,000, which he used to purchase an in-calf cow for his family's milk supply. George also trains community members in fish farming, creating employment opportunities and improving local food security.

Future Aspirations:
George aims to expand his fish and vegetable farming operations, enhancing food security and economic opportunities in Kisii County.

b) Japhet Nyamongo - Namare, Marani Sub County, Kisii County

Japhet's determination to pursue sustainable fish farming began with overcoming challenges like flooding while leasing land for ponds. Through the ABDP programme , Japhet received 1000 fingerlings, a pond liner, and essential training in fish farming techniques, financial literacy, and business management.

ABDP's Impact:
Equipped with vital skills from ABDP, Japhet effectively managed his fish farming enterprise, incorporating innovative practices like fish farming integration. His successful harvest in June 2022 not only generated income but also contributed to local food security and nutrition by selling directly to schools, churches, and the community. Japhet's entrepreneurial spirit was evident through value addition strategies like selling fried fish, expanding his customer base, and achieving economic viability with weekly earnings of KES 15,000.

Family and Community Impact:
The proceeds from Japhet's harvests, including the KES 100,000 from his first harvest, were wisely invested in securing his children's education and improving family living conditions. Japhet used a portion of these funds to build a house for his children, ensuring improved living conditions and long-term stability for his family. By involving locals in harvesting activities, Japhet created job opportunities, supporting livelihoods in rural areas and fostering community development.

Future Aspirations:
Japhet's ambitions in aquaculture include offering consultancy services, expanding into fish processing, and constructing more ponds to create economic opportunities within his community.

*MIGORI COUNTY SIGNIFICANT CHANGE SUCCESS STORIES: Aquaculture Transformations*

a) Belinda Akinyi Odoyo - Suna West, Migori County

Belinda Akinyi, a dedicated fish farmer, transformed her approach from family consumption to sustainable practices. Overcoming challenges like predators and limited farming knowledge, she joined the ABDP program, receiving a pond liner and crucial training. Her first harvest yielded KES. 61,500, enabling her to invest in a ploughing ox cow and cover school fees. Belinda's impact extends beyond economics; she creates employment opportunities and shares skills with her community. She aspires to expand her fish farming and venture into vegetable farming, showcasing aquaculture's potential.

b) Phoebe Oketch - Awendo Sub County

Phoebe Oketch's journey with Kakmasia Fish Farmers demonstrates resilience. Through ABDP, she gained vital skills and stocked her pond, harvesting fish valued at KES. 86,000. Phoebe's dedication goes beyond profits; she empowers her community through employment and knowledge sharing. Her future goals include expanding fish farming operations, encouraging more members to join, and acquiring a fish roasting machine. Phoebe's story exemplifies aquaculture's impact on livelihoods and community development.

c) Rose Akinyi Yugi - Siala Village, Rongo Sub County

Rose Akinyi, a retired civil servant turned Seno Fish Farmer, embraced aquaculture post-retirement. ABDP provided her with training and resources, resulting in a successful harvest. Rose's efforts transcend economics; she creates employment and shares knowledge, benefiting her community. Her plans include expanding fish farming, owning a fish roasting machine, and further empowering her community through sustainable practices. Rose's journey showcases the transformative power of sustainable farming.
These stories highlight the positive impact of aquaculture, inspiring communities in Migori County to embrace sustainable farming practices.

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BUSIA COUNTY
*Innocent Omuse's Inspiring Aquaculture Journey*

Meet Innocent Omuse, a dedicated member of the Kamarnyang Self Help Group in Teso South, committed to sustainable fish farming practices. Innocent started his fish farming venture initially for family consumption but encountered challenges like predators and lack of knowledge on effective farming methods.

*Challenges and Transformation:*

Before joining the ABDP program, Innocent faced difficulties with poor-quality feeds, theft, and predators. Thanks to ABDP's intervention and training, he transformed his farming practices from basic to advanced techniques.

*ABDP’s Impact on Expansion and Harvesting:*

With support from ABDP, including a pond liner, seeds, and feeds, Innocent expanded his operations from 1 to 5 ponds, focusing on marketable catfish. Now, he harvests fish four times a year and earns KES. 20,000 weekly through partial harvesting. From this proceeds, he is able to cater for his family's basic needs and school fees for his children.

*Community and Family Impact:*

In addition to improving his family's nutrition through fish consumption, Innocent trains his community in pond management and integrated farming techniques involving maize and vegetable cultivation alongside fish farming.

*Job Creation and Economic Impact:*

Innocent's successful venture has created employment within his community, including roles in pond construction, fish feeding, harvesting, and marketing, contributing to economic growth and reducing unemployment.

*Future Aspirations and Call for Support:*

Looking forward, Innocent aims to encourage more community members to engage in fish production and expand into vegetable farming. He advocates for aquaculture consultancy services, highlighting its comparative ease and potential for sustainable income generation.
Innocent's journey underscores the transformative impact of sustainable aquaculture practices, supported by initiatives like ABDP, on livelihoods and community development.

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