Director General KMFRI Board Secretary Aquaculture & Fisheries Research Aquatic Ecology • Fish Breeding • Food Security • Blue Economy Nearly 3 Decades in Fisheries & Aquaculture Academic Qualifications PhD in Zoology (Aquatic Ecology) – University of Eldoret
MSc in Zoology – Moi University
BSc in Zoology – University of Eastern Africa, Baraton Scholarly Output 68 Publications • 12 Books • Supervised numerous MSc & PhD students locally and internationally Professional Affiliations FARA • World Aquaculture Society • Nature Kenya • SARNISSA African Aquaculture Network | Leadership Focus: Advancing blue economy research and innovation, harnessing aquaculture for food security and economic empowerment, and positioning KMFRI as a global leader in sustainable fisheries management. KMFRI Director General Dr. Paul S. Orina brings a wealth of experience spanning nearly three decades in fisheries and aquaculture research, policy, and innovation. He holds a BSc, MSc, and PhD in Zoology with a focus on aquatic ecology from the University of Eastern Africa, Baraton, Moi University, and the University of Eldoret. Dr. Orina also serves as Secretary to the KMFRI Board of Directors, ensuring effective governance and strategic alignment between the Board and the Institute's management. A specialist in fish breeding and aquaculture systems, Dr. Orina is passionate about harnessing aquaculture to advance food security, improve nutrition, create economic opportunities, and conserve endangered freshwater species. His career began with extensive fieldwork in Lakes Victoria, Turkana, and Naivasha, before transitioning to aquaculture, where he has now served for 16 years. Research & Scholarly Contributions 68 Publications 12 Books MSc/PhD Supervision In-Pond Raceway Technology Greenhouse Aquaculture Transformative Innovations & Leadership - Championed introduction of in-pond raceway and greenhouse aquaculture technologies in Kenya
- Pioneered research on aquatic macrophytes as rich Omega-3 sources for both fish and human nutrition
- Secured strategic land allocations in Tharaka Nithi and Kisii Counties, boosting aquaculture's role in employment creation and food security
- Lectured part-time at global institutions including University of BOKU (Austria), Wuhan University (China), Boston University (USA), and St. John York University (UK)
International Collaborations & Partnerships Strategic Partners: WorldFish • Conservation International • Open Society Foundation • PlusFish Philanthropy • BBSRC (UK) • University of Stirling (UK) • IFAD • FARA • University of Delhi (India) • Sokoine University (Tanzania) • Boston University (USA) Grant Sourcing Expertise: Strong background in international grant sourcing has enabled transformative research and infrastructure development across Kenya's aquaculture sector. Policy & Sector Leadership: Dr. Orina has been a key player in shaping Kenya's aquaculture sector policy and is an active member of the Forum for Agricultural Research in Africa (FARA), the World Aquaculture Society, Nature Kenya, and the SARNISSA African Aquaculture Network. His vision and expertise are expected to further strengthen KMFRI's position as a leader in advancing blue economy research, innovation, and sustainable fisheries management. |
