Fishermen in Kwale have been urged to use proper fishing methods to protect the marine ecosystem.
County Commissioner Gideon Oyagi said for the fishing industry to thrive, all fishermen must shun destructive methods and illegal equipment that endanger marine life.
He said the government is keen on tapping and exploiting the blue economy to improve the sector but stakeholders must take the frontline in protecting the resources from massive destruction.
"The government supports fishing activities but let us abide by the given rules and regulations to improve the industry," he said.
Over the years, the fish population in the county has been dwindling due to poor fishing techniques and the dumping of harmful waste in the sea affecting marine life.
There have been reports of overfishing and netting of fingerlings resulting in the loss of some species.
Recently, Shimoni fishermen have decried the frequent harassment by the coast guard officers while out fishing at the sea.
Oyagi said in as much as the government wants to improve the sector, people must strike a balance between conserving marine life and improving livelihoods.
He said the fishermen must adopt new technology and laws that secure their lives and that of the marine.
The county commissioner said the government is encouraging investments and business undertakings but all that should be done as per the stipulated regulations.
"Fishing is the most crucial sector for Kwale people and the economy at large but let it be practiced in the most legal manner," he said.
Fishing activity is one of the main economic activity in Kwale and provides direct employment to over 3,000 fishermen.
It is widely done along the coastal shores of Msambweni, Matuga and Lunga-Lunga subcounties.
Previously, some fishermen were accused of engaging in unlawful transportation of aliens and drugs to and from the neighbouring countries through the Vanga and Shimoni sea-scape.
Oyagi said fishermen must work in cooperation with the coast guard officers to improve security along the Indian Ocean and the borders.
He said instead of the fishermen blaming the officers, they should work together in fighting against illegal fishing.
He, however, warned the coast guard officers against using excessive force or harassing innocent citizens.
Oyagi said they should assist the fishermen and give them directions on how to comply with the existing fishing law.
At the same time, Oyagi told the residents to embrace the upcoming Shimoni fishing port project and use it to change their lives.
He said the project has many goodies that will help improve their livelihoods.
Oyagi added that apart from the various job opportunities, the port will boost the county's economy.
The port construction is expected to culminate in August 2022 according to the local authorities.
