The Nakuru County government has issued a stern warning to traders, especially fish vendors and hotel operators, who have been selling contaminated fish harvested from Lake Nakuru.
Authorities say anyone found engaging in the illegal trade risks losing their business licenses and facing legal prosecution.
In a public notice, Henry Koech, the Head of Fisheries in Naivasha Sub-County, revealed that scientific research conducted by Egerton University in 2024 confirmed that fish from Lake Nakuru contain dangerously high levels of toxic metals such as lead and mercury—making them unfit for human consumption.
Koech further noted that a similar study by Nakuru County experts in 2020 had already raised the same alarm.
“This is to notify all fish traders and hoteliers in Naivasha Sub-County that fish sourced from Lake Nakuru is illegal and hazardous. Anyone found selling it will face legal action,” he declared.
Why Fish from Lake Nakuru Is Dangerous
Experts explain that Lake Nakuru is an alkaline lake, meaning it naturally does not support fish life. However, illegal fishing activities have increased, fueled by pollution, chemical runoff, and waste from nearby urban areas. These pollutants are absorbed by the fish, turning them into toxic carriers of heavy metals.
Health studies have linked lead and mercury contamination to:
- Brain and nervous system damage
- Kidney and bone complications
- Increased risk of cancer and heart disease
- Developmental problems in children
Illegal Repackaging Scheme Exposed
Just two months ago, Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen revealed a disturbing trend where some individuals have been harvesting toxic fish from Lake Nakuru, then transporting them to Kisumu, where they repackage them as Tilapia—a popular and normally safe species—before distributing them across major towns.
Murkomen said some of those involved own cold storage facilities and refrigerated trucks, allowing them to operate at a large scale.
“This fish is not safe. Yet it is being taken to Kisumu, relabeled as Tilapia, and brought back to markets across the country,” he warned.
Crackdown Underway
The Public Health Department, Kenya Fisheries Service, Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS), and local security agencies have teamed up to track down the culprits. A multi-agency task force will be deployed to seize illegal fish, shut down storage facilities, and prosecute offenders.
Public Advised to Be Vigilant
Authorities are urging Kenyans to avoid buying fish from unknown or suspicious sources, especially if prices seem unusually low. Consumers are also encouraged to report any suspected illegal fish trading.
The county government maintains that public health takes priority over profit, and no business will be allowed to endanger lives for financial gain.
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