Through joint efforts the project, Lilongwe University, a method for intermittent harvesting was developed, based on expert discussions and literature research. The size-­selective fish trap was designed for easy and regular harvest of juvenile fish in mixed-sex tilapia cultures, mitigating the risk of a total loss of fish crop due to extreme weather events. Next to the better management of the pond’s carrying capacity, the low-cost fish trap was expected to improve household nutrition and cash flow of small-scale aquaculture farmers. In a series of experiments different fish species, stock densities and time intervals for the use of the trap were tested. On-farm trials were conducted to test the innovation’s use in the field. With the application of the trap for intermittent harvest the total yields under optimal conditions were 25 percent higher than in the control group with single batch harvest. Throughout the three-month trial in the field, the farmers used the trap two to three times a week. An average of 830 g of small but marketable fish was caught each time, adding up to over 20 kg of continuous fish supply for the farmer. 

This additional catch provided a steady source of food for the household or could be sold at favourable prices, especially when local market fish supplies were low during the aquaculture cycle. 

The Sustainable Livelihoods component of K-BMU was a vital element in the project, aimed at supporting associated value chain actors to improve their livelihoods. This building block involved mapping actors in the fisheries value chain, identifying opportunities for improvement through business plan development, and testing pilot trials to demonstrate viable options. The project successfully met its primary objective under Sustainable Livelihoods, contributing to the enhancement of livelihoods for K-BMU members and associated value chain actors.

The Legal Framework of K-BMU was a foundational element in implementing the KCMA Plan, aimed at strengthening sustainable livelihoods and effective biodiversity conservation. This component involved upgrading the K-BMU Constitution and operational Bylaws, enhancing awareness among stakeholders, establishing a Monitoring Control and Surveillance (MCS) system, and initiating the gazetting process for the Fishery Limitation Sites (FLS). The project achieved its primary objective under the Legal Framework, laying a solid groundwork for the sustainable management of marine resources.

The governance component of the KCMA project, led by K-BMU, was designed to enhance the management and sustainability of coastal fisheries resources in Kilifi County. This involved enhancing the capacity of K-BMU and its executive to effectively govern and manage the fisheries, ensuring that all actors whose livelihoods depend on these resources are registered, licensed, and aware of their rights and duties. The governance framework was pivotal in achieving the project's primary objective of ensuring sustainable livelihoods from coastal fisheries resources.

The focal point of recycling is a step by step process that transforms waste product into a reusable, valueable substance. The composition of the net is cleaned, crushed and restructured

Significant design and purposing is developed through utilising community skills that already exist. Products developed from recycled and repurposed abandoned nets display local character, flare and application. Incorporating story and background provide introduction to DYI projects available to tour groups and school programs

Taiwan Enivironmental Management Authority has Fishing Policy encouraging responsible use of fishing gear.  Since 2020, the Ocean Conservation Administration under the Ocean Affairs Council has engaged local governments in pilot programs for recycling and reusing abandoned fishing nets (oyster ropes) and polystyrene (floating devices). As of 2023, over 799 tons of these materials had been recycled, achieving a reuse rate of nearly 75%.

HaYi is government recognised as a collection point for abandoned nets

As both the Community Fishery Conservation Trust Funds and Women’s Saving Group Conservation Funds contribute to CFi activities, it is important to engage with local government authorities to gain their support and leverage their involvement. Community Fisheries operate under a government mandate and are overseen by local Fisheries Administration authorities, who ensure that CFi activities follow both internal and national rules. Involving the Commune authorities in managing Women’s Saving Group operations helps to reduce potential sources of intergroup conflict, increase trust between members, and strengthen group management. Women’s Saving Group members respect the involvement of the Commune and are mindful of its oversight. Furthermore, some Commune’s have granted additional top up grants to Women’s Savings Groups who have performed well.

Each Women’s Saving Group must achieve a high standard of financial literacy and management capacity prior to receiving a Conservation Fund. These skills are required before they start to loan the Conservation Fund capital to their members and then provide their local CFi with the interest generated to fund conservation activities. Capacity building for Women’s Savings Group members includes training in managing credit, building a business, understanding contracts, and keeping a savings book. The Women’s Savings Group Committee will also be trained in meeting procedures, record keeping, bookkeeping, managing savings books and understanding the group bylaws.

Prior to receiving funds, the Community Fisheries Committee must demonstrate a high level of management capacity. The CFi committee needs to be able to convene and record meetings, hold elections, and be financially transparent and accountable. The committee also needs the skills to work with local authorities and understand the legal framework within which they operate. These skills are provided through a mix of training and long-term support and mentoring.