Overview
About Sagana
The Sagana Research Station, established in 1965, is one of KMFRI's oldest inland facilities and Kenya's primary centre for freshwater aquaculture research and development. Situated along the Sagana (Tana) River system in Kirinyaga County, the station conducts research into the culture of indigenous freshwater fish species and develops aquaculture technologies appropriate for Kenya's diverse agro-ecological zones. The station operates demonstration hatcheries and grow-out ponds, and provides technical backstopping and extension support to fish farmers across the central highlands and Tana River basin.
At a Glance
Established
1965
Ecosystem
Freshwater (River Sagana)
Email
sagana@kmfri.go.ke
Address
P.O. Box 451–10106
Sagana, Kirinyaga County, Kenya
Sagana, Kirinyaga County, Kenya
Coordinates
0°40′S, 37°11′E
Research
Research Focus Areas
Freshwater Fish Culture
Optimising production systems for rainbow trout, tilapia, catfish, and indigenous species including labeo and barbus under Kenyan conditions.
Hatchery Technology
Development and refinement of spawning, incubation, and larval-rearing protocols that underpin Kenya's national fish seed supply chain.
Aquafeeds & Nutrition
Formulation and evaluation of cost-effective fish feeds using locally available ingredients including soybean, black soldier fly larvae, and duckweed.
Extension & Training
Translating research outcomes into practical guidance for smallholder fish farmers through on-farm trials, field demonstrations, and structured training programmes.
Infrastructure
Infrastructure & Facilities
- Recirculating aquaculture system (RAS) units
- Earthen and concrete grow-out ponds
- Broodstock and hatchery facilities
- Water quality and feed analysis laboratory
- Extension and farmer training centre
- Cold-chain and processing demonstration unit