KMFRI launches state of the art reseach vessel

KMFRI launches state of the art reseach vessel – Fisheries Development Minister unveils RV Uvumbuzi 

The minister for Fisheries Development and MP for Funyula Honarable Dr. Paul Otuoma unveiled Sh75 million state-of-art research vessel— RV Uvumbuzi — acquired by KMFRI to promote research programmes in Lake Victoria on the 4th of June 2010.   The colorfull ceremony was held in Kisumu. In attendance included Kisumu Town West MP Olago Aluoch, Fisheries PS Prof Michemi Ntiba accompanied the minister.

‘R.V. UVUMBUZI” is a modern research vessel for aquatic research and is expected to undertake research providing information leading to informed management  decisions for Lake Victoria fisheries and environmental management.  Research undertaken using this vessel will strengthen collaborative work already going on within the East African Community. 

The ship is fitted with Multi-parameter limnological equipment including state of the art water quality monitoring system – CTD with a multi-parameter CTM 90 probe and fluorometer proxy sensor capable of self contained operations up to depths of 100 meters. A SIMRAD EK 60 dual frequency hydro-acoustic scientific echo-sounder provides real time on-board laboratory download displays of distribution and density of fishstocks.  Hydro-acoustic information is supplemented by data from mechanized pelagic (mid water) and bottom trawls.  Research undertaken using this vessel will strengthen collaborative work already going on within the East African Community.

The new stat of the art research vessel has the following additional features:

• On-board analytical laboratory
• 15 days resilience for prolonged stay off-shore
• Adequate rest cabins for crew and scientists
• State of the art communication equipment including VHF, SSB radios and satellite phones
• State of the art Navigation equipment and Radar
• Eco-sounders
• Samples storage chambers for frozen and toxic substances.