This archive report was first published on 30 June 2019.
On June 30, 2019, the Kenyan government lifted a ban on fishing activities off the coast near the Somalia border, following improved security in the region.
Coast Regional Coordinator John Elung'ata announced the lifting of the ban, stating that security had improved in Lamu, thanks to intensified patrols by the Kenya Defence Forces and police.
"We want normalcy to return to Lamu, from Hindi up to the borders, even to our fishermen who have been afraid of venturing into the deep seas," Elung'ata said.
He urged fishermen to venture into the deep seas and exploit marine resources to spur growth of the blue economy, promising that the government would provide fishing safety gears, including vests, good nets, and fishing boats.
Earlier this month, Kenya banned fishing activities near the Somalia border over security concerns, citing incidents of drug trafficking and trade in contraband goods sneaked in from Somalia.
However, with the ban lifted, fishermen in Lamu are expected to increase production, and the government is planning to provide modern boats and safety gear to boost the industry.
