Socioeconomics Characteristics of small-scale fisheries along Mwache-Kilindini Creek in Kwale and Mombasa Counties

The Mwache-Kilindini creek watershed is a popular location for development, it is an estuarine ecosystem characterized by high economic and ecological value. Fisheries along the creek support the food system and livelihood for the riparian community, however the fishery is threatened by increased developments that are taking opportunities for the small-scale fisheries. While blue economy investments provide benefits to a broad range of societal actors, small-scale fisheries are in competition for space with other established enterprises. This study gives an account of the social, economic, and cultural reality of the riparian communities, their reliance on the ecosystem services provided by the creek and interactions with the blue developments in the area. The primary objective of this work is to define fisheries activities, their interactions with developments along the creek and recommend measures for sustainable development. The study took place along the Mwache-Kilindini channel. Data was collected by use of semi-structured interviews, key informant interviews and focus group discussions. Ms. Excel v.365 and SPSS v.22 were used to conduct analysis. Results indicate that 90% of economic activities around the creek were dependent on artisanal fisheries, the fishery supported about 24,000 people. Fishermen from different BMUs shared the same fishing grounds and therefore impacted significantly by the development projects. The most targeted fishery was prawns, 6 months records obtained from one of the ten BMUs along the creek indicated ex-vessel value of prawns at Ksh. 95,975,418. The recorded impacts of developments included loss of fishing grounds, fish breeding sites, fish landing sites, cultural sites, and displacement from the villages. The study recommends the following, Resettlement Action Plan, Livelihood Restoration Plan, integration of marine spatial planning to the developments along the creek, continuous engagement of the community, and building capacity for the community to co-exist with new developments and build on alternative livelihoods.