QFFD Signed a USD 5 Million Agreement with WorldFish to Scale Climate-Resilient Aquaculture in Kenya

Qatar Fund for Development (QFFD) has signed a USD 5 million funding agreement with WorldFish to strengthen climate-resilient aquaculture systems in Kenya and the wider African region, aimed at improving livelihoods across vulnerable communities and benefiting more than two million people.

The agreement was signed on the sidelines of Doha Forum 2025 as part of QFFD’s broader portfolio of development partnerships advancing food security, climate resilience, and inclusive economic growth.

The funding supports WorldFish’s Climate-Resilient Aquaculture Systems for Africa (CASA) project, a five-year initiative co-funded by QFFD and the Gates Foundation, focused on transforming Kenya’s aquaculture sector to be more productive, inclusive, and climate-resilient.

CASA works across the aquaculture value chain to scale climate-resilient production systems, expand access to improved fish strains, and strengthen the enabling conditions needed for a thriving industry.

At the heart of the project is the scaling of GIFT tilapia, a WorldFish-developed strain that grows faster and uses feed more efficiently, helping farmers increase productivity and profitability. This is complemented by investments in farmer capacity building, value chain development, policy engagement, and tailored financial products and services.

Mr. Fahad Hamad Al-Sulaiti, Director General of QFFD, stated:

“This partnership reflects QFFD’s commitment to advancing sustainable food systems and climate resilience in Africa. By supporting climate-resilient aquaculture, we aim to empower local communities, enhance food security, and create sustainable economic opportunities for millions of people.”

Dr. Essam Yassin Mohammed, WorldFish Director General, highlighted the potential of aquaculture in Africa:

“Africa’s aquaculture sector holds enormous untapped potential to drive food and nutrition security, livelihoods, and economic growth in Africa. This partnership with the Qatar Fund for Development enables us to scale proven, climate-resilient aquaculture solutions in the region, which can help realize that potential.”

Through these interventions, CASA aims to strengthen the aquaculture sector, improve livelihoods across vulnerable communities, contribute to job creation, and enable more reliable access to affordable, nutritious fish.

The signing ceremony was witnessed by H.E. Dr Mariam bint Ali bin Nasser Al-Misnad, Minister of State for International Cooperation; H.E. Sheikh Thani bin Hamad Al Thani, Chairperson of QFFD; and Mr Bill Gates, Chair and Board Member of the Gates Foundation.