Internal Security Principal Secretary Dr. Raymond Omollo has issued a stern directive to fishermen cooperatives across the country, calling for immediate leadership training to safeguard members' savings. Speaking on Friday, November 13, 2026, Dr. Omollo emphasized that the sector is currently plagued by mismanagement, with officials frequently accused of misusing funds intended for the welfare of the fishing community.
The PS noted that the fishing sector is a vital component of the national economy, yet it remains vulnerable due to weak governance structures within cooperatives. He argued that without professional management and transparent financial oversight, the livelihoods of thousands of fishermen remain at risk. The proposed training aims to equip cooperative leaders with the skills necessary to manage assets responsibly and adhere to regulatory standards.
This move is part of a broader government effort to professionalize the cooperative movement in Kenya. Dr. Omollo highlighted that the government is committed to protecting the interests of small-scale producers and ensuring that cooperative societies function as engines of economic growth rather than sources of personal enrichment for a few officials. He warned that those found culpable of mismanaging funds would face the full force of the law.
Fishermen cooperatives have welcomed the initiative, acknowledging that internal governance has been a long-standing challenge. Many have expressed hope that the training will lead to better accountability and improved service delivery for members. The Ministry of Interior is expected to partner with the Ministry of Cooperatives to roll out these training programs in the coming weeks.
As the government intensifies its oversight of the cooperative sector, the focus remains on building sustainable institutions. The success of this initiative will be measured by the ability of these cooperatives to stabilize their finances and provide tangible benefits to their members.