Youth in Sustainable Aquaculture: Driving Innovation and Economic Empowerment

On October 30–31, 2025, the Wigot Gardens Hotel in Kisumu hosted Youth in Sustainable Aquaculture LSPs pitching event, bringing together young entrepreneurs, stakeholders, and partners to explore opportunities, innovations, and strategies in aquaculture. This two-day program emphasized enterprise pitching, stakeholder engagement, policy review, and apprenticeship programs, aiming to strengthen sustainable aquaculture initiatives led by young people.

Day 1: Enterprise Pitching and Stakeholder Engagement

The first day of the event focused on youth enterprise pitching, with ten innovative aquaculture ventures presenting in multiple rounds before a panel of judges. Participants showcased creative solutions in fish farming, fingerling production, and aquaculture technology, highlighting both technical competence and entrepreneurial potential. Networking sessions and exhibitions provided a platform for youth to exchange ideas, build partnerships, and attract investors.

Distinguished speakers emphasized key enablers for youth success. Ms. Farida Salim, CECM for Trade, Tourism, Industry, and Marketing, Kisumu County, encouraged young entrepreneurs to proactively seek opportunities, maintain honesty about their capabilities, and leverage initiatives such as AGPO (Access to Government Procurement Opportunities). She highlighted the importance of discipline, networking, and determination, reminding participants to connect with county trade offices and develop strong customer trust.

Mr. Teddy Nyanapa, YISA program manager, reinforced the significance of Local Service Providers (LSPs) as the “engine” of the program, emphasizing alignment with the YISA Programme ideals. He shared his personal journey, demonstrating how discipline, commitment, and leveraging government programs like AGPO can accelerate professional growth. Similarly, representatives from KNCCI, Ms. Victoria Omondi, encouraged youth in agribusiness to register with professional networks to access local and international investors, trade fairs, and market linkages.

Speakers from the private sector, including Rio Farm's Ms. Nivah Ondieki, highlighted the growing demand for fish in Kenya, urging young people to invest in aquaculture ventures such as cage farming and hatchery management. This underscored the economic potential of sustainable aquaculture as both a means of livelihood and a contribution to food security.

Day 2: Policy Review, Apprenticeship, and Strategic Discussions

The second day focused on policy review, apprenticeship programs, and strategic discussions aimed at strengthening youth-led aquaculture initiatives. Sessions emphasized the importance of safeguarding, adherence to codes of conduct, and ethical practices within aquaculture enterprises. Participants explored tools for data management and reporting, including ODK and Clappia, to improve transparency and service delivery.

Discussions also covered apprenticeship programs, last-mile distribution, and partnerships, providing practical guidance on operational efficiency and market access. The focus on capacity building was reinforced by the organization Livingwood Consultants Limited, highlighting the value of public-private collaboration in scaling youth-led enterprises.

Key Insights and Lessons

Several themes emerged throughout the event:

1.      Youth Empowerment: The event celebrated youth entrepreneurship in aquaculture, highlighting the importance of innovation, resilience, and practical skills in building sustainable businesses.

2.      Discipline and Professionalism: Speakers consistently emphasized the role of discipline, honesty, and consistent effort in achieving success.

3.      Networking and Collaboration: Building strategic networks with investors, government programs, and industry stakeholders is essential for growth and access to opportunities.

4.      Policy and Ethics: Safeguarding and adherence to ethical codes underpin sustainable and responsible business practices.

5.      Market Opportunity: The rising demand for fish presents a substantial economic opportunity, particularly for youth willing to innovate in production, hatchery management, and enterprise development.

Conclusion

The Youth in Sustainable Aquaculture event was more than a pitching competition—it was a movement toward economic independence, innovation, and inclusive growth. By equipping young entrepreneurs with practical skills, access to government and private-sector opportunities, and mentorship, the program reinforces Kenya’s growing aquaculture sector.

As highlighted by speakers, success begins with a small idea, a bold step, and unwavering discipline. Programs like these demonstrate that with proper guidance, resources, and networks, youth can lead Kenya toward sustainable livelihoods, job creation, and food security, positioning aquaculture as a promising frontier for economic empowerment.