Kilifi:The government is enhancing investment in the fisheries and aquaculture sectors in Kilifi and Kisumu counties, directing billions of shillings towards modern landing sites, cold-storage facilities, processing infrastructure, and programs targeting women and youth.
According to Kenya News Agency, Cabinet Secretary for Mining, Blue Economy and Maritime Affairs Hassan Joho informed the Senate that these investments are part of a broader strategy to improve fisheries management, strengthen food and nutritional security, and create jobs and income for communities reliant on the blue economy.
In Kilifi, the Kenya Marine Fisheries Socio-Economic Development project has allocated Sh983.64 million to fund 287 Common Interest Groups, benefiting 21,107 people, including 10,419 women and 10,688 youth. These groups are involved in fisheries, agriculture, livestock, environmental conservation, social welfare, and small and medium enterprises. Joho noted that these initiatives have generated employment and livelihood opportunities, both directly and indirectly, through the fisheries value chain.
The government has completed modern fish landing facilities in Ngomeni, Kichwa Cha Kati, and Malindi, costing Sh48.62 million, Sh51.78 million, and Sh54.98 million, respectively. These facilities aim to reduce post-harvest losses, improve food security, and increase earnings for fisherfolk. Additionally, the Kilifi Central Fish Landing Site, costing Sh275.07 million, is 85% complete and expected to directly benefit about 3,000 people and another 15,000 indirectly.
Construction of the Kilifi Central Fisheries Office is underway at Sh152.36 million, with the renovation of the Malindi Fisheries Office costing Sh53.89 million, both nearing completion. Further landing sites are planned across several locations, incorporating fish markets, ice plants, cold stores, processing areas, and jetties to strengthen the fisheries value chain.
Efforts to protect fishing communities from climate change effects include planting 2.4 million mangrove seedlings and promoting seaweed farming as an alternative livelihood. The government has also introduced early warning systems to provide oceanographic information for safer fishing operations.
In Kisumu, the government is developing the Kabonyo Regional Fisheries and Aquaculture Service and Training Centre of Excellence. The project, valued at US$9.997 million and approved in November 2022, is financed by a tied-aid credit from the Hungarian Government. It aims to strengthen fisheries and aquaculture services, training, and technical capacity in the Lake Victoria region.
Joho stated that these investments are part of a national program designed to harness fisheries resources for economic development, improve livelihoods, and enhance food security. The government is committed to continuing its investment in infrastructure and programs to unlock the potential of Kenya’s blue economy.
