The inaugural Blue Economy and Fisheries Intergovernmental Sector Forum

The forum was chaired by Cabinet Secretary Hon. Ali Hassan Joho, represented by State Department for Blue Economy PS Betsy Njagi, and co-chaired by Busia Governor Dr. Paul Otuoma and it brought together national and county leaders to strengthen intergovernmental collaboration and public participation.

In his remarks, PS Lenasalon termed the forum a historic milestone in transforming Kenya’s water bodies into drivers of economic growth. He emphasized that the Blue Economy is a central pillar of the national development agenda and highlighted the critical role of counties in unlocking its potential.

He noted that under devolution, meaningful livelihood transformation happens at the county level, urging county governments to lead the agenda while fostering partnerships with communities and the private sector in line with the Bottom-Up Economic Transformation Agenda (BETA).

PS Lenasalon further stressed that achieving Vision 2030 and BETA requires sustained consultation and collaboration, warning against fragmented approaches. He underscored the need for inter-county cooperation, noting that the Blue Economy value chain cuts across multiple regions.

In his address, CS Joho highlighted fisheries as a vital economic pillar, acknowledging past coordination challenges but expressing optimism for improved outcomes through collaboration. Governor Otuoma also hailed the forum as a key step toward unlocking the sector’s potential, citing ongoing county investments to strengthen local economies.

The forum was attended by county delegations, national government officials, the Council of Governors-Kenya, the IGRTC -Intergovernmental Relations Technical Committee, and other stakeholders.

PS Lenasalon was accompanied by the Director for Partnerships and Intergovernmental Relations, Lesley Khayadi, the National Program Coordinator of the Second Kenya Devolution Support Program (KDSP II) Dr. Samuel Nyaga, among other staff members.