SPEECH BY H.E. GLADYS WANGA, EGH, DURING THE ANNUAL BEACH MANAGEMENT UNIT (BMU) CONVENTION 2026

SPEECH BY H.E. GLADYS WANGA, EGH, DURING THE ANNUAL BEACH

MANAGEMENT UNIT (BMU) CONVENTION 2026 AT HOMA BAY FISHERIES

GROUND ON 07.05.2026

Chairperson of the County BMU Network,
County Executive Committee Members present,
Members of the County Assembly,
Representatives from the National Government and development partners,
Leaders of Beach Management Units,
Distinguished guests,
Ladies and gentlemen,

Good morning.

It gives me great pleasure to join you during this important Annual BMU Convention 2026, a gathering that continues to provide a vital platform for reflection, dialogue, and collective action towards strengthening our fisheries sector.

This year’s theme, “Strengthening Co-management Institutions for Sustainable Fisheries,” is timely and deeply relevant. It speaks directly to the future of Lake Victoria, the livelihoods of our fisherfolk, and the sustainability of one of the most important economic pillars of our county.

Ladies and gentlemen,

The Blue Economy is steadily becoming a key driver of economic transformation in Homa Bay County. Thousands of families depend on Lake Victoria through fishing, fish trade, boat-making, transport, and related enterprises. Beyond that, the sector contributes immensely to food security, employment creation, revenue generation, and poverty reduction.

However, we are also alive to the challenges facing the sector, including declining fish stocks, rising operational costs, unemployment among the youth, insecurity on the lake, theft of fishing gear, illegal fishing practices, and cross-border conflicts.

These challenges are, however, not impossible to overcome.

Since taking office, my administration has been deliberate and focused on revitalizing the fisheries sector and improving the livelihoods of fisherfolk across the county.

Last year, on 21st November 2025, we launched the Homa Bay County Fisheries and Aquaculture Policy. This landmark framework now guides how we plan, manage, organize, develop, and steer the fisheries sector. This policy clearly defines stakeholder roles and lays the foundation for sustainable exploitation of our fisheries resources.

In line with this vision, my government has continued investing in critical infrastructure and support systems within the blue economy.

We have constructed modern fish bandas and sanitation facilities across strategic landing sites to improve hygiene, fish handling standards, and public health along our beaches. These include: Achich Fish Banda in Homa Bay East Ward; Kaugege Fish Banda in Kasgunga Ward; Ragwe Fish Banda in Kaksingri West Ward; Wayando Fish Banda in Rusinga Ward; Alero Fish Banda in Gembe East Ward; Ongoro Fish Banda in Kendu Bay Town Ward and Kiwari Fish Banda in Mfangano Ward

These investments are transforming fish trade environments while improving dignity and working conditions for our fisherfolk and traders.

Additionally, we have equipped 64 Beach Management Units with electronic weighing scales to promote fairness and accountability in the fish trade.

To enhance safety and enforcement on the lake, my government distributed 240 life jackets and provided three fiberglass patrol boats stationed at Sare, Chwowe, and Koginga beaches. These interventions are helping strengthen surveillance, improve safety standards, and curb illegal fishing practices.

Recognizing the importance of financial inclusion within the fishing community, my government further extended KES 6 million to the Homa Bay County BMU Networks SACCO to improve access to affordable credit for BMU members and fisheries-related enterprises.

Ladies and gentlemen,

Today, we are proud that the Beach Management Unit movement in Homa Bay County is stronger, more organized, and more visible than ever before.

The establishment of the County BMU Network Office has provided BMUs with a physical and strategic operational space at the heart of both County and National Government institutions.

The second office space for the BMU SACCO has enhanced accessibility to affordable financial services while reducing operational costs associated with rent, thereby freeing more resources for lending to members.

Most importantly, we are pioneering a bold partnership where BMUs are gradually becoming revenue collection agents for the County Government on a commission basis. This is a progressive and innovative model of community participation in governance and service delivery.

While there may be teething challenges, I am confident that together we shall refine this model and position Homa Bay as a national leader in community-driven governance within the Lake Victoria region.

Distinguished guests,

We currently have 143 BMUs across the county. We understand their needs. They require fish bandas, fish stores, toilets, clean water, electricity, cold storage facilities, and all-weather roads. We will continue to work with the National Government, BMUs, development partners, and communities to offer the necessary support and secure the future of Lake Victoria to improve the livelihoods of our people

As we celebrate these milestones, we must also remain focused on sustainability.

I therefore urge all BMUs to continue embracing responsible fishing practices, protecting breeding zones, complying with fisheries regulations, and working closely with enforcement agencies to eliminate illegal fishing.

Let us also empower our youth and women within the fisheries value chain by expanding opportunities in aquaculture, fish processing, value addition, digital fish marketing, cold chain logistics, and blue economy innovation.

I thank you all for your commitment, resilience, and partnership.

May God bless the people of Homa Bay County.
And may God bless Kenya.

Thank you.