Nairobi — Equity Group Holdings and MicroSave Consulting have launched a new initiative aimed at improving access to financing, reducing post-harvest losses and enhancing productivity in Kenya's fisheries sector.
The partnership targets fish farmers, fishers, traders and processors across the fisheries value chain, with a focus on expanding financial inclusion and promoting gender equity among small-scale operators.
The programme seeks to address long-standing challenges in the sector, including limited access to affordable credit, insurance, modern storage infrastructure and reliable markets, which continue to constrain incomes for many fishing communities.
Speaking during the signing of the Memorandum of Understanding in Nairobi, James Mwangi said the partnership would help transform fisheries into a modern and investment-ready sector.
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"This partnership brings together institutions with complementary strengths to drive impact at scale. We will expand financial inclusion, strengthen food systems, support climate resilience and create opportunities for women and youth," he said.
Graham A.N. Wright said the collaboration comes at a time when Africa is grappling with climate change, food insecurity and economic shocks.
"This partnership aims to ensure that fishers, traders and farmers can access data, manage risks and make informed decisions," he said.
Under the programme, beneficiaries will access tailored financial products aligned to fisheries production cycles, alongside insurance solutions designed to cushion them against climate-related and business risks.
The initiative will also deploy digital tools to improve financial management, strengthen market access and support decision-making across the fisheries value chain.
Women and youth, who account for a large share of Kenya's fisheries workforce, are expected to benefit significantly through targeted economic empowerment and inclusive growth programmes in rural and coastal communities.
The partnership further seeks to tackle structural challenges including fragmented value chains, inadequate infrastructure and limited access to information. It will support financial literacy programmes, entrepreneurship development and pathways for small-scale fishers to transition into sustainable commercial enterprises.
Cold storage facilities are also expected to be introduced to help reduce spoilage and improve fish quality reaching markets, addressing one of the sector's major post-harvest challenges.
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Digital transformation will be a central component of the programme, with the partners integrating data systems and artificial intelligence tools to support pricing, production planning and market intelligence.
The initiative will initially roll out in Kenya before expanding into other African markets where Equity Group operates, targeting actors including aquaculture farmers, traders, processors, feed manufacturers and exporters.
