In an effort to address rising food expenses and enhance school feeding programs, the Aquaculture Business Development Program (ABDP) has introduced pond fish farming for tilapia cultivation in schools across Kisumu County. This initiative aims to contribute to dietary diversity and reduce dependency on traditional food sources.
Quick Summary
- ABDP’s Initiative: The Aquaculture Business Development Program (ABDP) has implemented pond fish farming for tilapia cultivation in Kisumu County schools to support school feeding programs.
- Objectives: The program, conducted in partnership with the Kisumu County Directorate of Fisheries, seeks to reduce food expenses, enhance dietary diversity, and provide a sustainable source of protein through fish farming.
- Supportive Measures: ABDP supported participating schools by providing pond construction assistance, pond liners, predator kits, tilapia fingerlings, fish feeds, cone garden materials, and extension services.
- Successful Harvest: St. Agnes Muhoroni primary school in Muhoroni Sub County, one of the participating schools, successfully harvested 278.14 kilograms of tilapia fish, showcasing the program’s positive impact.
- Headteacher’s Appreciation: Charles Abonyo, the headteacher of St. Agnes Muhoroni primary school, expressed appreciation for the initiative, highlighting the significant contribution of fish farming to supplement traditional diets and provide learners with sufficient proteins.
- Community-Based Resource Center: The project has established a community-based resource center aimed at enhancing learning about the Competency-Based Curriculum.
- Call for Increased Resources: Charles Abonyo urged regional schools to allocate more resources to pond fish farming, maximizing the benefits of the initiative.
- Learner Engagement: Learners have actively embraced kitchen gardening in the school, with some extending the practice to their homes.
Fostering Food Security and Dietary Diversity
The introduction of pond fish farming by ABDP in Kisumu County schools marks a crucial step towards fostering food security and dietary diversity. By supporting schools with essential resources and expertise, the program aims to create sustainable sources of protein while reducing the financial burden associated with traditional feeding programs.
Community Impact and Learning Centers
The successful harvest at St. Agnes Muhoroni primary school serves as a testament to the positive impact of the initiative. Additionally, the establishment of a community-based resource center for learning about the Competency-Based Curriculum reflects a broader commitment to educational and community development.
Empowering Learners and Beyond
The active engagement of learners in kitchen gardening not only contributes to the success of the program within schools but also extends its benefits to the broader community. As students embrace and cascade these practices to their homes, the initiative becomes a catalyst for positive change in dietary habits and food production.
Final Thoughts
The adoption of aquaculture in Kisumu County schools represents a holistic approach to address food security challenges and enhance nutritional diversity. By empowering schools, learners, and communities, the program not only provides a tangible solution to rising food expenses but also fosters a sustainable and inclusive model for food production and education. As the initiative progresses, it has the potential to serve as a replicable model for other regions seeking to improve food security and promote innovative agricultural practices in educational settings.