Socioeconomic and policy implications on genetic improvement for sustainable aquaculture productivity in Kenya: A review

Abstract

Aquaculture in Kenya is rapidly expanding and has become an important subsector for promoting food security, employment creation, and economic diversification, as capture fisheries continue to decline amid rising demand for fish. This review examines the socioeconomic and policy implications of genetic improvement of farmed fish species in Kenya in the context of sustainable aquaculture development. We synthesize evidence on genetic improvement approaches, including selective breeding, triploidy, marker-assisted selection, and emerging gene-editing technologies, and assess their contributions to enhanced aquaculture productivity and the conservation of aquatic genetic resources. Selective breeding programs in Asia and Africa have reported growth improvements of 30%–85%, improved feed efficiency, and higher survival rates, highlighting the potential of genetic improvement to enhance fish production and farmer livelihoods in Kenya. The review highlights existing national strategies, guidelines, and institutional frameworks for genetic improvement while identifying key challenges related to hatchery certification, genetic erosion, biosecurity risks, and weak institutional coordination. Drawing on international best-practice frameworks and comparative experiences from Asia, the article evaluates gaps in Kenya's current policy and institutional landscape, including the Fisheries Management and Development Act 2016 and the Draft National Aquaculture Policy 2025. We argue that realizing the full socioeconomic benefits of genetic improvement depends on the establishment of a coordinated national breeding and broodstock management program, strengthened research and extension capacity, and harmonized governance across national and county levels to support a sustainable and competitive aquaculture sector.