The SAFI Project

LAKE VICTORIA AQUACULTURE

Ohala Africa’s economic development work in the Lake Region is currently focused on the aquaculture sector. This work began in 2023 with the establishment of the Lake Victoria Aquaculture (LVA) Association, which Ohala Africa continues to incubate.

The LVA Association is a membership based industry advocacy group that has quickly positioned itself as a credible industry voice, successfully coordinating stakeholders, advocating for an enabling policy environment, and influencing national regulatory processes. Notably, it led a successful legal petition that suspended the enforcement of restrictive fisheries regulations and played a pivotal role in halting the contested Fisheries Management and Development Bill, 2023.

Building on this foundation, Ohala Africa has spearheaded the development of the SAFI Project (Sustainable Aquaculture Financing Initiative) — a flagship partnership initiative designed to mobilize catalytic investment and foster innovation in the Lake Region’s aquaculture sector. Through strategic partnerships, strong governance, and innovative financing, SAFI will unlock growth opportunities for small and medium aquaculture enterprises while driving long-term food security, jobs, and livelihoods in the region.

While deeply rooted in the Lake Victoria Region, our outlook is global. In a world of rapid transformation — shaped by technology, climate change, and shifting power dynamics — we connect local realities with bold, forward-looking insights. Our aim is simple: to turn community experience into actionable ideas that not only shape Africa’s future but also contribute to solutions with worldwide relevance.