POTENTIAL FOR SUSTAINABLE MARICULTURE IN EAST AFRICA; CASE STUDY OF KENYAN COASTAL COUNTIES

Kenya has immense potential for aquaculture growth and development due to recent decline of capture fisheries production from inland fisheries. The coast line and related counties have considerable potential as a source of economic return and, if properly planned would promote aquaculture growth and development for better livelihoods.  For example seaweed mariculture farms may change aesthetics & impact on the marketing potential of popular tourist areas.

The work is based on indepth desktop analysis, mariculture farmers’ interviews and field visits including field photos and scenarios. The study indicate under production of milk fish/mullet, prawn /shrimp culture, rabbit fish, seaweeds, crab farming, oyster farming, sea cucumber, artemia cysts, pearl culture, coral culture and marine ornamentals.

This poster presentation captures status of mariculture along the Kenyan coast and suggests innovations and sustainable technology for maximizing production and sustainable use.