Thousands of families in Kwale County continue to depend on fishing and marine resources from the Indian Ocean for their daily sustenance, as the Government intensifies multi-billion-shilling investments aimed at transforming the coastal blue economy.
Over the past three years, the national administration has rolled out a series of strategic projects designed to empower fisherfolk, modernize fish handling infrastructure and expand value addition within the maritime sector.
At the heart of the transformation agenda is the Sh2.7 billion Shimoni Fish Port, which has been completed and is currently undergoing operationalization. The port is expected to significantly boost fish production, enhance export capacity and create employment opportunities for local communities.
Another flagship initiative, the National Marine Culture Research Centre of Excellence in Shimoni, is now 70 per cent complete. The Sh1.4 billion facility is projected to become a regional hub for marine research, aquaculture innovation and skills development once finalized.
In a move to directly strengthen grassroots fishing enterprises, Sh652 million has been disbursed to Beach Management Units across the county, supporting 221 fisherfolk group-based business ventures. Additionally, 70 onshore fishing boats have been procured and distributed to local groups, alongside the provision of a search and rescue vessel to enhance safety at sea.
The procurement process for three deep-sea fishing vessels for Kwale fishermen is also underway, a step expected to expand access to deeper waters and increase catch volumes.
The Sh600 million Maritime Academy on Port Logistics at Kombani is 95 per cent complete. The institution is poised to equip youth with technical skills in maritime operations, logistics and port management, strengthening Kenya’s competitiveness in the blue economy sector.
Further improvements in fish landing infrastructure are also taking shape. The Sh53 million Kibuyuni Fish Landing Site and Seaweed Store has been completed, offering improved post-harvest handling and storage facilities. Meanwhile, construction of the Sh255 million Mwaepe Fish Landing Site is halfway complete.
Leaders recently inspected the ongoing construction works at the National Marine Culture Research Centre of Excellence in Shimoni, located in Lunga Lunga Constituency, and called for adherence to timelines and delivery of high-quality standards for the flagship project.
The inspection was conducted in the company of Cabinet Secretary Salim Mvurya, who oversees the Ministry of Sports, Youth Affairs and Creative Economy, and Kwale Governor Fatuma Achani.
Officials emphasized that the projects form part of a broader strategy to unlock the full potential of marine resources, improve household incomes and position Kwale as a leading player in Kenya’s expanding blue economy.
