Homa Bay County Beach Management Units (BMU) Chairman Mr. Edward Oremo has asked fishermen in Lake Victoria to take precautionary measures as they venture out into the lake during the El Nino rains.
Oremo said that fishing was one of the major economic activities in Homa Bay County and has more than 134 active and operating beaches, adding that there is need for fishermen to comply with the rules and guidelines that have been issued by the Kenya Maritime Authority (KMA).
Noting that majority of accidents in the lake were linked to bad weather especially during rainy seasons, Oremo said they do not want any fisherman to get involved in accidents which could be avoided.
“Fishermen have been sensitized on how to operate when El Nino rains come. Our emphasis is that they should adhere to the guiding principles given by KMA and the metereological department,” Oremo said.
Speaking to journalists in Homa Bay Town, Oremo warned fisherfolk to evacuate the lake early whenever storms set in.
The meteorological department has been releasing daily alerts on weather forecasts to be followed to prevent any eventuality which may be caused by change of weather patterns.
Oremo said his office will be coordinating with all the BMU officials around the lake to ensure the guidelines are adhered to.
“The fishermen are advised not to step into the lake when it’s raining. They should park their boats close together after anchoring them,” he said.
Oremo said fishermen are also advised not to leave their gear in the lake as water waves orchestrated by El Nino rains can destroy them.
“Beach management officials should ensure drainage systems are cleaned to avoid water logging and flooding. This will also help in reducing spread of diseases like malaria and bilharzias,” Oremo said.
The BMU Chair urged the Department of Health Officers to work closely with them for proper sensitization of the fisherfolk. He said the department should get ready and respond to emergency issues whenever they occur.
Oremo observed that the anticipated El Nino rains was likely to compromise sanitation at the beaches especially as pit latrines may collapse due to floods.
“Roads leading to beaches should be made passable for easy accessibility when required. Drugs and other medical assistance should be provided on timely basis,” he added.
By Davis Langat
