Twenty BMU Leaders Trained on Safer Fishing Through Weather and Climate Knowledge

Fishing continues to sustain thousands of families across Lake Victoria, but unpredictable weather and climate changes remain a major threat to the safety and livelihoods of fishing communities. To address this, Tembea Youth Center for Sustainable Development, in partnership with BBC Media Action, organized a training session for Beach Management Unit (BMU) Chairs from Siaya County.

Mershak Ndiege Okuku, the County BMU Chair in Siaya, welcomed the initiative, describing it as timely and impactful for fishing communities that often face challenges due to sudden weather changes.

“This training is good and will enable beaches that previously lacked access to weather forecasts to start receiving them. Although there was a lot of information in a short time, we need more trainings like this to fully understand and apply the knowledge,” said Okuku.

The training aimed to equip BMU leaders with the knowledge and skills to interpret and apply weather and climate information for safer and more sustainable fishing practices. During the sessions, BMU leaders learned how to access and use weather forecasts, interpret climate advisories, and apply this information before setting out on fishing expeditions.

Bondo Sub-County Fisheries Officer, Fred Akelo, emphasized the importance of moving beyond traditional forecasting methods.

“Weather patterns have changed, and apart from the traditional weather forecasts fishermen rely on, we have to embrace scientific forecasts. Information is power, so we are here to help BMU Chairs from Siaya County learn from the Kenya Meteorological Department.”

Peter Luya, from Tembea Youth Center for Sustainable Development, explained that the training is about more than just receiving updates.

“We are here to ensure that BMU Chairs are trained on weather updates and that they do not just leave the information there, but use it. We are going to ensure that weather boards are introduced and that leaders are trained on how to use them. The same training will also be extended to BMUs in Kisumu, Busia, and Homa Bay counties.”

Project Officer Peter Luya leading discussions and setting the pace for the training.

Bahati Benjamin from the Kenya Meteorological Department in Busia, who facilitated the training, reaffirmed their commitment to supporting fishing communities.

“We are committed to providing accurate and timely forecasts. This collaboration will not only ensure our information reaches the people but also that they can interpret, plan, and use it to reduce accidents on the lake.”

Kenya Meteorological Department Director Busia, Mr. Bahati, guiding fishermen through a weather forecast training session.

This initiative highlights the importance of partnerships between communities, government institutions, and development organizations. By empowering BMU leaders with critical knowledge, the program strengthens resilience and safeguards the lives and livelihoods of fishing communities across Lake Victoria.