a sustainable alternative to declining capture fisheries and playing a key role in enhancing food security, economic development, and environmental sustainability. This paper examines the achievements of aquaculture within the context of Kenya’s blue economy, highlighting key opportunities and ongoing challenges in the sector’s evolution. Kenya has made notable progress in expanding aquaculture production, particularly through government-led initiatives such as the Economic Stimulus Programme (ESP), the Aquaculture Business Development Programme (ABDP), and recently more financial allocation into the sector by the current government under the Bottom up Economic Transformation Agenda (BETA). These efforts have led to increased fish production, food security, job creation, and enhanced income for rural communities thus reducing poverty levels. The promotion of tilapia and catfish farming, along with the development of hatcheries and feed mills, has stimulated local economies and reduced the pressure on overexploited wild fish stocks, contributing to the sustainable use of aquatic resources. It has also provided avenues for inclusive growth, engaging youth and women in fish farming and related value chains. The establishment of aquaculture training centers and extension services has improved technical capacity and awareness among small-scale farmers. Furthermore, innovations in cage farming, integrated aquaculture-agriculture systems, and digital technologies are creating new efficiencies and markets. However, despite these achievements, the sector faces significant challenges: limited access to affordable, quality inputs such as fingerlings and feeds, weak market infrastructure, inadequate cold chain systems, and fragmented value chains. Environmental concerns, including water pollution, poor site selection, and lack of regulatory enforcement, pose threats to long-term sustainability. Additionally, the sector struggles with limited research funding and coordination among stakeholders, which affects policy implementation and innovation. To fully harness aquaculture’s potential within Kenya’s blue economy, there is a need for integrated policies, increased investment, and stronger public-private partnerships. Emphasizing sustainability, capacity building, and infrastructure development will be essential to overcoming current barriers. Ultimately, aquaculture offers a strategic pathway for Kenya to achieve its blue economy goals by fostering inclusive economic growth, food security, and environmental resilience, provided that the opportunities are effectively leveraged and challenges proactively addressed.
Key words: Blue economy concept; sustainable aquaculture; improved livelihoods; cage culture; pond culture; improved food systems