The KIWASCO lagoons in Nyalenda that was once notorious for thugs and killings has today become a hub of innovations with an array of new technologies that support the livelihoods of youths in and out of Kisumu.
Some of the innovative technologies domesticated in the Vicinaqua site include: MBR, RAS, irrigation, black soldier fly, value addition, aquaponics, aquarium, feed formulation, fingerling production that has been adopted I. Kericho, Nakuru, Kilifi, Kitui, Makueni among other counties and aquaculture systems installation technology.
The open day for this Lab is to allow the public to walk in and learn the new technologies that they can apply in their homes to boost food production.
The event brought on board a number of representatives from development partners who include: State Department of Fisheries, Maseno University, KIWASCO, KFS, KEMFRI, KIRDI, KCB, WARMA, Government Chemist, Sani Wise, Aquaban among others.
Speaking during the event, the CECM for Agriculture, Irrigation, Livestock, Fisheries and Blue Economy, Hon. Kenneth Onyango noted that the various technologies being showcased in Vicinaqua is reshaping the way youths are engaged in agriculture along the value chain nodes.
He pointed out that it’s worrying that agriculture is left for the very aged cohort and that the trend must change.
Hon. Onyango reiterated that the dissemination of such technologies and skills will help transform the mindset of the youths towards agriculture and ultimately become employers
“earning a degree is not an end game but it should shape your perspective towards the world” he said.
According to the Director Fisheries and Blue Economy, Madam Susan Adhiambo the project recirculates waste water for both agriculture and aquaculture and it has been proven fit for the same according to FAO standards.
In giving a brief background on how the project started, today they boast of having grown three companies that have created employment hence they want to incubate more companies.
She said they have integrated academia, research and practice through collaboration with Maseno University and KIRDI for value addition and market linkages.
The Director Livestock, Mr. Charles Kakuku encouraged the youths to be resilient, consistent, independent and focused for better livelihood.
The Director Agriculture, Mr. Walter Odum called on the public to adopt the circular economy so that they can learn how to efficiently use the scarce resources.
On his part, the County Project Coordinator, ABDP program, Mr. Kevin Wamira said the event has provided an opportunity to celebrate and explore what agroecological does. He urged the farmers to adopt what they have learned for sustainable aquaculture as they conserve the environment.
