Atlas of Aquaculture Potential in Coastal Kenya. FAO Project “Support to the implementation of mariculture in Kenya within an ecosystem approach & Blue Growth Initiative in Support for Food and Nutrition Security, Poverty Alleviation & Healthy Oceans

Abstract

The potential for the continued development of mariculture in Kenya is immense. However, its expansion and long-term sustainability require proper planning, which starts from appropriate zoning and with the selection of the right sites, followed by the adoption of good management practices. Appropriate zoning will determine how and where to develop aquaculture enterprises that are socially inclusive, equitable and environmentally responsible, and which provide opportunities for sustainable and profitable aquafarming in addition to the economic activities that grow around it. The main objective of this Atlas is to identify appropriate mariculture zones and sites that take into account the aforementioned objectives. This Atlas includes comprehensive information on various key themes, as well as providing users with maps and satellite images showing the areas that have been selected in accordance with reliable information on the main site-selection criteria in Kenya. It should be noted that decisions over siting are often complex and require the interpretation of data and specific ground surveys. In general, this Atlas will assist investors or governments who wish to establish marine cage aquaculture projects along the Kenyan coastline. The provision of geo-referenced information on some of the main criteria will guide them in the selection of the most appropriate areas, while enabling a reduction of conflicts with other coastal users and minimizing environmental impacts.