Hassan Joho authorizes fishing in Lake Nakuru despite health warnings

Mining, Blue Economy and Maritime Affairs Cabinet Secretary Hassan Joho has sparked controversy by instructing police not to arrest fishermen operating in Lake Nakuru. During an event in Nakuru, Joho asserted his authority over fisheries, stating, “Samaki ni yenu. Polisi, mimi ndio mhusika kamili na kuanzia leo nimewapea leseni waende wavue samaki wao,” effectively granting permission for the activity.

This directive contradicts long-standing warnings from government agencies regarding the legality and safety of fishing in the protected Lake Nakuru National Park. The Kenya Fisheries Service (KeFS) maintains that fishing in the lake is prohibited, citing scientific studies that highlight significant health risks. An April 2026 KeFS study detected parasites and lead in sampled fish, with some concentrations reaching 0.74 mg/kg, exceeding permitted safety limits.

Health experts warn that lead exposure can impair neurological function, affect cognitive development in children, and damage cardiovascular, kidney, and reproductive health in adults. Additionally, a 2022 Kenya Wildlife Service study identified elevated levels of endosulfan and heptachlor epoxide residues in Nile tilapia from the lake. The dispute follows previous allegations of illicit fish trade networks and calls from the Senate Committee on Security, Defence and Foreign Relations for fresh testing of the lake's fish.