By Nyanza Wire 
Siaya County is set to host President William Samoei Ruto on Sunday, as the Jaramogi Oginga Odinga University of Science and Technology (JOOUST) prepares to showcase its state-of-the-art Blue Economy Research Hub in Miyandhe. The facility marks a major milestone in the university’s commitment to advancing research and innovation in aquatic resource management.
Commissioned in January 2023 by President Ruto, the Blue Economy Research Hub was established to drive home-grown solutions to Africa’s most pressing challenges. During the commissioning, the President emphasized the blue economy’s potential to spur sustainable development, create jobs, and boost economic growth. He called on universities to align their research and training with national labour market needs and emerging global trends.
Anchored on Kenya’s Blue Economy agenda, the hub focuses on the sustainable use of aquatic resources to promote economic growth, improve livelihoods, and protect ecosystems. Its vision is to position JOOUST as a leading institution in fisheries, aquatic sciences, and related technologies. The facility features a highly specialized molecular research laboratory designed to support both postgraduate and undergraduate students.
Strategically located near Lake Victoria, the hub offers JOOUST a unique advantage in freshwater research and innovation. The proximity to one of Africa’s largest freshwater ecosystems enhances opportunities for practical learning, data collection, and technology development in fisheries and aquatic resource management.
University Council Chairman Prof. Shem Wandiga, speaking during the initial commissioning, commended the government’s continued investment in research infrastructure. He noted that the hub would play a transformative role in improving livelihoods across Siaya County and beyond. Since its establishment, JOOUST has continued to attract both local and international research funding, reinforcing its position as a regional research powerhouse.
Among its flagship initiatives is the Africa Centre of Excellence in Sustainable Use of Insects as Food and Feeds (INSEFOODS), funded by the World Bank, which promotes sustainable food security through insect-based innovations. The university has also secured grants from the National Research Fund, the United States Agency for International Development (USAID), and VLIR-OUS, strengthening its research capacity and global partnerships.
Additionally, JOOUST has ventured into innovative projects such as its sericulture initiative in collaboration with Silk Organ Limited, focusing on silk and mulberry wine production as part of its income-generating and sustainability efforts.
As preparations intensify for the President’s upcoming visit, the near-completion of the Blue Economy Research Hub underscores JOOUST’s growing role as a centre of excellence in freshwater research. The facility stands as a testament to Kenya’s commitment to harnessing the potential of the blue economy for national development and regional transformation.
Walter Akillah