Environmentalists warn climate change is draining Lamu’s fish stocks
Rising sea temperatures and unpredictable weather patterns are being blamed for pushing fish into deeper waters and disrupting traditional fishing grounds.
Environmentalists in Lamu County have raised concerns that climate change is steadily eroding fish stocks along the Indian Ocean coastline, leaving small-scale fishermen grappling with dwindling catches.
Rising sea temperatures and unpredictable weather patterns are being blamed for pushing fish into deeper waters and disrupting traditional fishing grounds.
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Experts warn that unless urgent action is taken, communities that depend on the sea for food and income face an uncertain future.
According to environmental activist Famau Omar, the effects of climate change are already visible across Lamu’s coastline.
“The ocean has become warmer, and the shallow breeding areas near the shore are collapsing. Fish are migrating to the high seas, beyond the reach of local fishermen,” he said.
Marine conservationist Twaha Kassim added that coral bleaching caused by rising water temperatures has further reduced marine biodiversity. “The reefs that once supported thriving fisheries are under stress. Without healthy habitats, fish populations cannot be sustained,” he explained.
Said Said, a climate expert, noted rough seas and shifting monsoon patterns are compounding the problem. “Unpredictable weather is making fishing both dangerous and unprofitable. Fishermen can no longer rely on stable seasons as they did in the past,” he noted.
Local fishermen say the changes have left them struggling to provide for their families. Athman Shee, who has fished for over 20 years, said catches have fallen sharply. “We spend hours at sea but return with almost nothing. Our livelihoods are hanging by a thread,” he said.
Another fisherman, Ahmed Lali, echoed the plea for support. “The ocean is changing, and we cannot fight this alone. We need modern boats and training to adapt to these new conditions,” he urged.
Environmentalists are now calling for government-backed adaptation measures, including investment in sustainable fishing practices, research on climate impacts, and support for vulnerable communities.
They caution that unless swift steps are taken, fishing traditions in Lamu could face collapse.
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