Aquaculture in Uasin Gishu County, Kenya, has grown significantly due to government support, favorable climatic conditions, and increasing demand for fish as a protein source. However, fish farming in the region faces severe challenges from pathogenic parasites and microbes, which significantly impact fish health and aquaculture productivity. Poor water quality, overcrowded ponds, and agricultural runoff exacerbate the proliferation of pathogens, including protozoan parasites (Ichthyophthirius multifiliis), monogeneans (Gyrodactylus spp.), bacterial pathogens (Aeromonas hydrophila, Edwardsiella tarda), and fungal infections (Saprolegnia spp.). These pathogens cause diseases that lead to high mortality rates, reduced productivity, and economic losses. This review synthesizes current research on fish pathogens in Uasin Gishu and contextualizes the findings within regional and global frameworks, identifying critical gaps in disease management. It also proposes strategies to mitigate disease prevalence, improve water quality, and enhance aquaculture sustainability.
Keywords: Food security, economic development, fish production, water quality, disease management.