A government-provided ice-flake-making machine has significantly improved the livelihoods of fish traders in Nakuru County. The Reech Self-Help group, the beneficiary of the machine, has seen a substantial reduction in losses and an increase in profits since the machine’s installation at Top Market, under the Agriculture Sector Development Support Programme II (ASDSP).
According to Kenya News Agency, before the machine’s arrival, the group faced daily losses of around 50 kg of fish, leading to a significant deficit in sales. Since October, when the machine was delivered, the group has not only reduced losses but also accumulated savings, now planning to invest in freezers and other cold storage facilities. Pauline Anyango, another group member, highlighted the previously high demand for ice flakes, especially in the dry season. The ASDSP, funded by the Swedish Government, has provided the group with training in fish handling, sales, value addition, and maintaining hygiene standards. Nakuru County Chief Officer for Agriculture, Newtom Mwaura, praised the project, encouraging more traders to participate in such programs for economic growth. Mwaura noted the critical role of cooling facilities in prolonging the shelf life of agricultural produce, emphasizing that many residents depend on the fisheries resources of Lake Naivasha for livelihoods. The lake contributes significant
ly to the county’s annual fish production and income for fishers.