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 KMFRI Board of Directors.

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.

His scholarly contributions include 68 publications and 12 books, alongside supervising numerous MSc and PhD students both locally and internationally. He has also lectured part-time at several global institutions, including the University of BOKU (Austria), Wuhan University (China), Boston University (USA), and St. John York University (UK), in addition to leading universities in Kenya.

Dr. Orina has championed transformative innovations such as the introduction of in-pond raceway and greenhouse aquaculture technologies in Kenya, as well as pioneering research on aquatic macrophytes as rich Omega-3 sources for both fish and human nutrition. His leadership has also seen KMFRI secure strategic land allocations in Tharaka Nithi and Kisii Counties, boosting the role of aquaculture in employment creation, economic empowerment, and food and nutrition security.

His strong background in international collaborations and grant sourcing has enabled partnerships with leading organizations, including WorldFish, Conservation International, the Open Society Foundation, PlusFish Philanthropy, and the BBSRC (UK). He has worked closely with institutions such as the University of Stirling (UK), IFAD, FARA, University of Delhi (India), Sokoine University (Tanzania), and Boston University (USA).

Beyond research and institutional leadership, Dr. Orina has been a key player in shaping Kenya’s aquaculture sector policy. He is also an active member of the Forum for Agricultural Research in Africa (FARA), the World Aquaculture Society, Nature Kenya, and the SARNISSA African Aquaculture Network.

Dr. Orina’s vision and expertise are expected to further strengthen KMFRI’s position as a leader in advancing blue economy research, innovation, and sustainable fisheries management.