Residents Call for Fair Pricing and Ecosystem Protection in Lake Baringo Fisheries Bill Debate

Residents of Baringo North turned out in large numbers on Friday at the Kambi Samaki Beach Management Unit (BMU) grounds to give their views on the Fisheries Management and Development Bill (National Assembly Bill No. 29 of 2023).

They urged Parliament to ensure fair pricing for fish, regulate middlemen, and protect the fragile ecosystem of Lake Baringo.

The public forum, organised by the National Assembly’s Departmental Committee on Blue Economy, Water and Irrigation, brought together artisanal fisherfolk, women traders, youth groups, conservationists, county officials, fisheries experts, and representatives of the national government.

Lamu West MP Stanley Muthama, who led the committee with Tiaty MP William Kamket, said the bill aims to modernise Kenya’s fisheries sector, promote sustainable use of resources, and create a clear governance framework.

“This Bill intends to bring order, transparency, and sustainability to Kenya’s fisheries while protecting our lakes and rivers,” Muthama said. “But it must reflect the realities of communities like yours who depend on Lake Baringo for their livelihoods.”

Local fishermen complained about being exploited by brokers who control prices at landing sites. Veteran fisher Joshua Changwony urged Parliament to protect artisanal fishers.

“We wake up at 3 a.m., fight storms, and return with very little. By the time brokers take their cut, we are left with almost nothing,” he said. “We want this law to ensure fair prices, regulate middlemen, and support value addition so that the fishermen finally benefit.”

BMU representatives and conservationists also warned about invasive species, shrinking breeding grounds, and declining fish stocks. BMU member Jennifer Chelimo said failure to act could be disastrous.

“If this Bill does not address the destruction of our breeding grounds, especially areas now dominated by hippos, soon we will have no lake to talk about,” she said.

Women fish traders, also known as “mama samaki,” asked for better cold storage, improved landing sites, and access to affordable credit. Trader Ziphora Kipyegon noted that the lack of infrastructure causes major losses.

“We lose up to 30 percent of our fish on hot days because there is no proper storage. If the Bill can help us get modern cooling facilities and training, our businesses will grow and our children will have food on the table,” she said. She also welcomed the forum being held in Kambi Samaki, giving women a direct platform to speak to lawmakers.

Youth leaders highlighted unemployment and outdated fishing gear as major challenges. James Lotem, a youth representative, urged Parliament to fund training in aquaculture, fish processing, and modern technologies such as sonar mapping.

“We cannot keep fishing blindly. Technology is critical to sustainable fishing,” he said.

Baringo County Fisheries Officer Matthew Chebon called for clear roles and adequate funding for county governments to implement the law.

“Fisheries is a shared function. Counties need resources and a clear mandate for enforcement, research, restocking, and extension services,” he said. “Sustainability depends on strong cooperation between national and county governments.”

Hon. William Kamket assured residents that their views would inform the committee’s final report and any amendments to the bill.

“Your views today become part of the parliamentary record. They will ensure this law works for communities like Baringo,” he said.