World Lake Day 2026: Protecting Our Lakes, Sustaining Our Livelihoods Through Women-Led Fish Farming

Lakes are vital lifelines for food security and local economies across Kenya and East Africa, yet pollution and environmental degradation continue to threaten freshwater ecosystems. Through our Blue Economy and Climate Action programming, Echo Network Africa Foundation (ENAF) supports lakeside communities, particularly women, to build sustainable livelihoods while safeguarding our waters.

In Homa Bay, Busia, Siaya, and Kisumu Counties, we support women-led fish farming groups with durable modern cages and solar-powered water harvesting equipment, alongside practical mentorship in environmental stewardship. This enables grassroots producers to manage viable enterprises while actively conserving local lakes.

Alongside responsible fish farming, community-led beach clean-ups keep shorelines free of plastic waste to protect aquatic breeding grounds. This World Lake Day, ENAF remains committed to partnering with national and county governments, development actors, and grassroots participants to protect and conserve lake ecosystems for the communities that depend on them.