Enforcement and compliance : exploring the missing link in the case of Lake Victoria fishieries (Kenya)

This study was done to determine the possible reasons behind the low compliance withfisheries regulation used to deter illegal fishing activities. Face to face interviews wereconducted in Kisumu, Bondo, Busia and Migori districts in Kenya. Questions used todesign the questionnaires were open-ended and based on the ""Table of 11"" which is amodel based on behavioural sciences. The model is composed of 11 dimensions thatinfluence compliance with regulations. The model has been used in The Netherlands todetermine the level of compliance with environmental regulations. The aim of this studywas to determine if the model can be adapted for use in Kenya. Around 80% offishermen have knowledge of the regulation tested but this has not translated tocompliance. Other model dimensions also determine what the final compliance levelwill be as indicated in the study. Compliance profiles indicate the strong and weakdimensions of compliance. Compliance estimates indicate the percentages of differentgroups of fishermen violating and complying with the regulation. I conclude that thelevel of compliance with fisheries regulation is quite low (30%) and can be improvedthrough enforcement. High level of enforcement will ensure that the high knowledge ofthe rule is converted to compliance. Many dimensions are shown to be strong atencouraging compliance but the situation on the ground depicts the opposite. Severityof the sanction is not felt in most cases. Government and BMU need to strengthen theirco-operation. Dimension (T7b) was found to be the most important dimension. Effortshould therefore be put to realize its objective. The ""Table of 11"" can be used in Kenya,with some minor adjustments, to assess the level of compliance with regulations. Irecommend that the high knowledge of the rule can be transformed into compliancethrough increased enforcement activities. I also recommend that the ""check-list for thelegislator"" should be made more flexible. Fishermen should be helped to start otherincome generating activities to reduce their over-reliance on the lake. The sanctionshould also be redrafted and BMU enforcers should work away from home to ensureefficiency in their work