By MKT Reporter
State Department of Investment Promotion Principal Secretary Abubakar Hassan has urged young people and fishermen to explore job opportunities in the blue economy sector, particularly in the fishing and sale of ornamental fish.
“We are seeing a lot of opportunity here, and we are telling our fishermen that when they go out fishing, they should not only focus on fish that can be eaten, but should also look for these ornamental fish,” the PS said.
He highlighted the potential for increased profits in this niche market, noting that ornamental fish sales could yield 20 per cent more profit than fish sold for consumption.
Farm Africa has launched a Sh2.6 billion programme in Kilifi to empower young people by equipping them with the skills and resources needed to access employment opportunities in the aquaculture industry.
The initiative, funded by the Mastercard Foundation, aims to benefit 150,000 youth over the next five years.
Farm Africa Director Mary Nyale emphasised the program’s potential to significantly reduce youth unemployment in the country and expressed optimism that the initiative would bridge the gap between education and employment by providing practical training and support.
“I am welcoming this programme into the county because it will greatly benefit the people of this county. They have 3 million dollars that will be used for grants in the aquaculture industry and 5 million dollars which will be used to issue loans to young people that want to start a business in aquaculture,” said Kilifi County Governor Gideon Mung’aro.
Martin Masinde