Fisheries contribute more 0.5% of the country’s DDP. This fish value chain provides direct employment from the fisher, distributor, and processors up to the point it gets to the consume. Apart from providing employment, fish can help promote food security by making more nutritious food available at an affordable cost. Since fish products are highly perishable marketing is an invaluable component in the fish venture. Although the fish market plays a vital role in the fish value chain in Lodwar, their operation is facing various challenges that limit operation and consequently affecting distribution of fish and fish products. The study aimed at identifying different marketing methods used in Lodwar fish market, factors affecting marketing and to identify possible mitigation measures to these challenges.
A total of 40 respondents participated in the study, including one officer from the Kenya Marine and Fisheries Research Institute (KMFRI), two officers from the State Department, five fish sellers, twenty members of the fishing community, two fish brokers, and ten fish customers. Purposive sampling was used to select the KMFRI and State Department officers, while simple random sampling was employed for the remaining participants. Data was collected through semi-structured questionnaires using a survey research design.
The data were analyzed using descriptive statistics with the aid of Microsoft Excel 2016 and presented in the form of pie charts and bar graphs. The findings revealed that while fish marketing was an essential income-generating activity in Lodwar, it was hindered by inadequate infrastructure, limited access to market information, and poor handling practices. The study highlighted the need for targeted interventions to improve market efficiency, enhance income for stakeholders, and ensure the sustainability of the fish value chain.