Kilifi: Marginalized communities in the Coast region have welcomed their involvement in the process of developing the national Marine Spatial Plan (MSP). Representatives of the far-flung communities in the region said their inclusion in this important national project was a clear indication of recognition and importance of their contribution to the plan intended to coordinate various marine uses like fishing, shipping, tourism, and energy through a public data-driven process.
According to Kenya News Agency, Ramadhan Divai, the leader of the Wailwana community in Tana River County, expressed gratitude to the national government and other agencies for involving them as key stakeholders. Divai, known as the ‘King’ of the Wailwana clan, highlighted that marginalized communities have often been excluded from social, economic, and other important decisions due to historical injustices and geographical isolation.
Speaking during a public engagement forum for marginalized and vulnerable groups to develop Kenya’s marine spatial plan at North Coast Beach Hotel in Kilifi County, Divai emphasized the importance of the new constitution, which mandates the inclusion of all Kenyans in programs and projects affecting them. ‘Involving marginalized communities in developing the marine plan fosters a sense of inclusivity and ownership of the entire process,’ he added.
The Ethnic Minorities and Marginalized Communities Bill, 2025, and associated policies are being developed to create a structured legal framework for implementing constitutional provisions and guiding the protection of these groups’ rights. Similar sentiments were echoed by other community representatives, including Khalifa Paragwe (Washirazi), Amina Komora (Wasanyi), and Futuma Kitole from the Wataa clan.
Dr. Jacqueline Uku, the National Coordinator of the MSP Secretariat, stated that the process was participatory to ensure the views and concerns of all stakeholders are factored into the marine plan. Dr. Uku noted that the input of marginalized groups is essential to create a more equitable and effective plan that balances economic benefits and environmental needs. ‘Involving the marginalized communities as part of the process will benefit the plan with indigenous knowledge and first-hand experience due to their closeness to the ocean,’ she added.
The Government, through the State Department for the Blue Economy and Fisheries, has organized a series of National Stakeholders Engagement Forums to develop Kenya’s Marine Spatial Plan (MSP). The participatory process aims to ensure the sustainable, equitable, and inclusive utilization of Kenya’s marine and coastal resources for the benefit of people and the environment.
