Discussion Paper No 283 of 2022 on Assessing the Implementation of Marine Fisheries' Programmes under the Blue Economy Platform

Abstract

The Discussion Paper No 283 of 2022 evaluates the implementation of Blue Economy initiatives in Kenya, focusing on the MTP III 2018-2022 and the 2018 Sustainable Blue Economy conference commitments for marine fisheries. The assessment is conducted using the PEFA framework, analyzing nine pillars: Development of Blue Economy, Fisheries Infrastructure Development and Exploitation of Living Resources under Blue Economy, Kenya Marine Fisheries and Socio-Economic Development, Aquaculture Business Development Programme, Kenya Marine Fisheries and Socio-economic Development (KEMFSED) Programme, Aquaculture Technology Development and Innovation Transfer Programme, Monitoring, Control and Surveillance Programme, Development of a Fish Quality Laboratory, and Cooperation and Implementation of Regional and International Frameworks and Standards Programme, and Policy, Legal and Institutional Reforms. The key findings highlight areas of improvement in each pillar, such as capacity building for Beach Management Units (BMUs) and fishermen, development of guiding documents for the Blue Economy, monitoring and assessment systems for project execution, supply of ice for fish preservation, accounting for industrial fishing and aquaculture in the GDP, establishment of a fisheries information system, development of aquaculture technology and innovation transfer programs, monitoring surveys in specific locations, development of fish quality programs, and review of fishery management regulation plans and policies. The recommendations include capacity building for fish farmers, strengthening monitoring and assessment systems, establishment of cold chains at landing sites, increasing fish production through targeted investment, implementation of a Monitoring, Control and Surveillance (MCS) strategy, support for water quality and fish quality laboratories, and rehabilitation of fish landing sites in Lake Victoria.