ACTS, working closely with partners, is setting up an innovative technology in aquaculture that is expected to change fish and seaweed farming in Kenya’s Coast
The Blue Empowerment project team join community members during the launch of the Integrated Multi-Trophic Aquaculture (IMTA) system.
The Integrated Multi-Trophic Aquaculture (IMTA) is an innovative approach to aquaculture that promotes environmental sustainability and economic efficiency. In IMTA systems, multiple species from different trophic levels are cultivated together in a synergistic manner.
With this technology, fish and seaweed can be farmed in a synergistic system that enhances the production of the two species where the waste produced by the fish provides nutrients for the seaweed, while the fish help to filter and clean the water. This interconnected system mimics natural ecosystems, reducing waste and improving water quality.
This technology is part of wider research project dubbed the Blue Empowerment that brings together KIRDI (Kenya Industrial Research and Development Institute), KMFRI (Kenya Marine and Fisheries Research Institute), Kenyatta University, Bahari CBO, Sea Moss Corporation LTD, and the communities of Kwale and Kilifi. The partners held a series of activities that culminated in a colorful launch.
It is a product of wide consultations among experts, researcher, and government official and extensive community engagement sessions have been conducted to ensure local stakeholders were well-informed and actively involved in the project.
These consultations and capacity building initiatives emphasized the importance of agency in the context of IMTA system in Kwale and Kilifi Counties. This collaboration focused on women and community empowerment through a series of activities aimed at fostering inclusivity and sustainable development.
One of the notable outcomes from the training sessions was the positive impact on women regarding gender and inclusion. The training significantly boosted the confidence of many women, empowering them and giving them the Kenya's coast embraces a new transformative aquaculture innovation ACTS, working closely with partners, is setting up an innovative technology in aquaculture that is expected to change fish and seaweed farming in Kenya’s Coast courage to participate actively in sea and ocean-related activities. This newfound confidence underscores the critical role of agency in development projects. By fostering a sense of agency, individuals - especially women - are empowered to make decisions, take initiative, and contribute meaning fully to their communities. This empowerment not only enhances personal growth but also drives collective progress towards sustainable development goals.
The IMTA system represents a significant advancement in sustainable aquaculture practices. By integrating multiple species that utilize different resources, IMTA creates a balanced ecosystem that enhances productivity and environmental health. This system not only supports economic growth but also helps communities build resilience against the adverse effects of climate change.
The Blue Empowerment project’s efforts are poised to make a profound impact on the local communities by providing new opportunities for economic development and sustainable resource management. The integration of women and marginalized groups into the project underscores the commitment to inclusivity and equitable growth.
IMTA not only enhances resource utilization but also offers economic benefits by diversifying products and reducing the risks associated with monoculture farming. By integrating various species, IMTA creates a more resilient and sustainable aquaculture practice, contributing to healthier marine environments and more stable food production systems.
