Residents of Bunyala in Busia County have expressed appreciation for the government's investments in fishing infrastructure and improved security. The interventions have made a positive impact on their livelihoods, with reduced cases of theft giving fishermen greater confidence to carry out their activities. The deployment of the Kenya Coast Guard Service and increased patrols on the water have contributed to this improved security.
The fishing communities in Bunyala have highlighted the significance of fishing to their local economy, supporting not only fishermen but also traders and transport operators. At Marenga Beach, the largest landing site in Bunyala, various groups depend on the fishing trade to support their families. A boda boda rider earns money by transporting fish to the market, while traders make a living from selling the catch.
One resident, who has witnessed three different administrations, credited President William Ruto's government with improving fishing infrastructure across several landing sites. The provision of fish-handling facilities, access roads, electricity, and speedboats to various landing sites and Beach Management Unit networks has been particularly notable. These improvements have allowed residents to appreciate the government's interventions in the fishing sector.
Despite welcoming the interventions, fishermen have raised concerns over challenges that continue to affect their activities. They warned that catching undersized fish was contributing to the depletion of fish stocks, raising concerns about the sustainability of fishing and the future of their livelihoods. Fishermen also reported cases of stolen fishing nets and difficult encounters with Ugandan officers operating on the lake.
The residents have called for continued attention to security challenges and measures to protect their equipment and fishing activities. They have also welcomed the opportunity to meet government officials directly, saying they had often felt that government was distant from their everyday experiences. This engagement provided an opportunity for residents and government representatives to discuss progress in the fishing sector.
PS Raymond Omollo credited President Ruto's leadership with encouraging government officials to engage communities at the grassroots rather than relying solely on reports from their offices. He emphasised that public officials had a responsibility to listen to citizens, account for their work, and explain the measures being taken to address challenges affecting communities.
The engagement between residents and government officials identified areas requiring further intervention, particularly insecurity on the lake. The residents expressed optimism that improved security would attract more people to the beaches, increase business activity, and create additional economic opportunities. The government's investments in fishing infrastructure and security have been seen as important steps towards improving fishing operations and supporting local economic growth.
Key points
- The government has improved fishing infrastructure across several landing sites in Bunyala.
- The deployment of the Kenya Coast Guard Service has reduced cases of theft, giving fishermen greater confidence.
- Fishermen have raised concerns over the depletion of fish stocks due to catching undersized fish.
