The newly appointed Cabinet Secretary for Mining, Blue Economy and Maritime Affairs H.E Ali Hassan Joho, EGH, on made his first official visit to KMFRI since his appointment. The CS, who is a former Governor of Mombasa county was accompanied by his successor, H.E Abdullswamad Sherrif Nassir and Principal Secretary of State Department of Fisheries and Blue Economy Madam Betsy Njagi, CBS.
The CS acknowledged KMFRI's efforts in harnessing the Blue Economy, urging the institute to do more to unlock the massive potential gains of aquaculture and mariculture.
"The Blue Economy is very broad. Mining, tourism and oil extraction are also components of the BE. Stock assessment is critical and investors need this data," said the CS.
The former Governor said the potential sitting on our waters is enormous and we must put in place plans to create more jobs for our youth, and generate higher revenue, adding that the benefits will reduce overdependence on the exchequer.
"Dependence on the exchequer compels the government to increase taxes," he said, pointing out that it places unnecessary burden on taxpayers.
The CS, Governor and PS also planted commemorative trees at KMFRI headquarters.
Earlier, the CS was warmly received by KMFRI's Ag Director General Dr Jacob Ochiewo and led to his office for a courtesy visit before addressing KMFRI's top managers at the Institute's Dolphin Hall. Dr Ochiewo delivered a presentation that showcased KMFRI's research milestones and the Institute's contribution to the Blue Economy sector.
The Governor welcomed the CS to Mombasa and wished him the best in his new role.
The PS commended KMFRI for her milestones in research and acknowledged the role of Marine Spatial Planning (MSP) in supporting the Blue Economy, saying there is need to develop a framework to aid implementation.
The CS and his delegation also toured KMFRI's herbarium, home to a collection of freshwater and marine fisheries specimens, which play a significant role in supporting and preserving scientific knowledge and biodiversity data.