Socio-economic Status of the Blue Foods Industry in Kenya for Sustainable Food Security and Climate Mitigation

The blue foods industry remains underutilized in Kenya despite the vast aquatic and marine resources present. Whereas many Kenyans obtain their protein needs from terrestrial animals and birds compared to marine sources, there is great potential in aquatic and marine sources. Studies indicate that livestock farming is a major greenhouse gas accounting about 14.5% global methane emissions. Also, land-based animal farming requires huge investments in capital and operation costs putting pressures on farmers. Furthermore, climate change disasters such as droughts, diseases and floods have led frequent losses of animals exacerbating both economic and health challenges. Blue foods from freshwater and marine sources are cheap, easy to cultivate and sustainable compared to animals. In Kenya, blue foods sources are essential economic drivers providing livelihoods and employment. Blue foods provide healthy proteins and valuable nutrients. However, the potential of blue foods in Kenya is yet to be understood. In this study, , we provide the status of the blue foods industry in Kenya's coastal regions, focusing on the types of ocean-based products supplied, sales volumes, market demand, and the challenges associated with climate change. A survey of suppliers, including supermarkets, fish markets, and butcheries, highlights the sector’s potential for growth, its role in diversifying protein sources, and its contribution to climate change mitigation through reduced reliance on land-based animal proteins. The findings provide insights into the barriers to promoting blue foods, particularly in terms of consumer preference and sustainability, while emphasizing the role of ocean-based proteins in reducing methane emissions and enhancing climate resilience. This research aims to inform strategies for expanding the blue foods industry in Kenya, offering recommendations for sustainable practices, policy support, and climate adaptation in the face of growing climate-related challenges.