Scientists have warned that Kenya’s fisheries sector is facing serious threats from climate change, overfishing and marine pollution.
Kenya is currently conducting research in its Indian Ocean waters aboard the Fridtjof Nansen vessel to assess the fish biomass, examine oceanographic conditions and evaluate the overall ecosystem for sustainable management of the fisheries resources.
The survey led by eight experts aboard the vessel will also provide extensive data on the Exclusive Economic Zone and further reveal the kind of diversity within the ecosystem.
“The vessel is equipped with the state of the art equipment for conducting marine ecosystem research. Kenya stands to benefit greatly through this collaboration with Norway,” said Kenya Marine and Fisheries Research Institute (KMFRI) acting Chief Executive Officer James Mwaluma.
Speaking during the celebration of 50 years of the EAF-Nansen Programme in Kenya, Dr Mwalume said the Kenyan and International Scientists who embarked on a major marine research expedition will come back with rich experience.
Food and Agriculture Organisation (Fao) representative in Kenya Nyabenyi Tipo said the expedition aims to maximise the role of aquatic foods in providing affordable, nutritious diets while protecting ecosystems and building resilience.
“Over 300,000 Kenyans depend directly on fisheries, and many more benefit indirectly. Yet, these resources face serious threats: climate change, overfishing, and marine pollution,” said Dr Tipo.
Dr Tipo said the research also supports Fao’s Strategic Framework from 2022-2031, promoting better production, nutrition, and environment.
The Fao representative urged the international community to commit to strengthening marine science, enhancing national capacity, and ensuring the ocean resources are managed wisely.
“Together, we can safeguard our marine ecosystems, empower our coastal communities, and build a more sustainable and food-secure future. Together, we are charting a new course for the future of fisheries and ocean health in Kenya and beyond,” added Dr Tipo.
“Over five decades, the partnership has provided crucial data for evidence-based fisheries management, built the capacity of Kenyan scientists and institutions like KMFRI and strengthened ecosystem monitoring and policy formulation,” said Blue Economy and Mining Cabinet Secretary (CS) Hassan Joho.
He said the preliminary results for the 2025 survey will help plan for sustainable management strategies and bolster Kenya’s resilience to climate change and marine biodiversity loss.
The CS whose speech was read by his PS Betsy Njagi said more surveys to capture different seasons in order to give a clearer picture of the ecosystem health and the environmental dynamics involved.
“Recalling the Memorandum of Understanding between the Kenyan government and the Kingdom of Norway, we must deepen collaboration among government, academia, the private sector, and our development partners; engage youth and institutions in marine science and innovation to drive sustainability, technology and resilience,” said the CS.
He said Kenya will host the 11th Our Ocean Conference in Mombasa next year. It will be the first African country to host the global event.
Mr Joho said the Conference will be an opportunity to highlight Kenya’s and Africa’s Ocean Economy agenda.
