Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna has criticised the 5 per cent ad valorem levy imposed on cage fish farming, warning that the charge risks hurting thousands of fish farmers and undermining Kenya's growing aquaculture industry.
Sifuna said the levy introduced under the Fisheries Management and Development (Aquaculture) Regulations, 2024 unfairly targets commercial aquaculture operators using public waters, particularly those operating on Lake Victoria.
He argued that the tax burden would disproportionately affect counties that rely heavily on fish production, with Homa Bay County bearing the greatest impact due to its dominance in cage fish farming.
"The 5% ad valorem levy on cage fish introduced under the Fisheries Management and Development (Aquaculture) Regulations, 2024 unfairly targets commercial aquaculture operators on public waters such as Lake Victoria," Mr Sifuna said.
He added that the measure could threaten the survival of fish farmers, especially small-scale operators who are already struggling with high production costs.
"It disproportionately affects fish-producing counties, particularly Homa Bay, which accounts for more than half of Kenya's cage fish production," he said.
"The levy places a heavy financial burden on fish farmers, especially small-scale operators, threatening their livelihoods and the sustainability of the sector."
The remarks come as the aquaculture sector continues to expand as Kenya seeks to reduce pressure on declining natural fish stocks while creating employment opportunities for communities living around major water bodies.
Lake Victoria farmers under pressure
Lake Victoria has emerged as a major hub for cage fish farming, with thousands of farmers investing in floating cages to increase fish production and meet rising demand.
Counties around the lake, including Homa Bay, Kisumu, Siaya, Migori and Busia, have increasingly embraced aquaculture as an alternative source of income amid declining catches from traditional fishing.
However, farmers have repeatedly raised concerns over the rising cost of feed, equipment, permits and market access.
Sifuna said imposing additional charges on producers could discourage investment in a sector that has the potential to transform livelihoods in fishing communities.
The senator argued that instead of introducing new financial burdens, the government should focus on supporting farmers through affordable inputs, better extension services and improved access to markets.
Political significance
The debate over the levy comes as leaders from fish-producing regions push for policies they say protect the interests of communities that depend on Lake Victoria for their livelihoods.
Homa Bay, which produces a significant share of Kenya's cage fish, has become a focal point in discussions on fisheries policy, with leaders warning that decisions made in Nairobi must consider the realities facing farmers on the ground.
Sifuna's intervention is likely to resonate with communities in western Kenya, where fisheries remain an important economic activity and a source of employment for thousands of households.
The issue also adds to growing political discussions around taxation, cost of living and government policies ahead of the 2027 General Election, with opposition leaders increasingly challenging measures they argue increase pressure on ordinary citizens and small businesses.
Call for review
Experts believe Sifuna's remarks are expected to intensify calls for the government to review the levy and consider a more supportive framework for aquaculture development.
They added that stakeholders in the sector have argued that Kenya's fish production requires investment and incentives if the country is to compete regionally and reduce dependence on imported fish.
