Kenya: Hundreds of fisherfolk in Msambweni Constituency are set to benefit from a modern fisheries infrastructure facility handed over by the Kenya Ports Authority. The multimillion-shilling investment aims at transforming the local fishing industry and enhancing livelihoods.
The new facility is constructed under KPA’s Corporate Social Investment (CSI) programme which is expected to significantly improve fish handling, preservation and market access for fishermen and fish traders in the area. This project is designed to address longstanding challenges facing fishing communities, including inadequate fish preservation facilities, limited storage capacity and lack of modern fishing equipment.
During the handover ceremony, Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of KPA – Capt. William Ruto said that the investment underscored the commitment of Authority to support communities while contributing to the agenda of Government for expanding Kenya’s blue economy.
Capt. Ruto further stated that this project is more than an investment in infrastructure. It is an investment in people, livelihoods and the future of coastal communities. He noted that the facility will directly benefit local residents by reducing post-harvest losses, improving the quality of fish products and enabling fishermen to access more lucrative markets.
Capt. Ruto further announced that KPA will conduct an evaluation after three-years to assess the project’s impact, sustainability and contribution to community development. The facility further comprises of an administration office block, a fish storage facility, an ice plant and a fully equipped one-ton capacity fishing boat.
The infrastructure is expected to strengthen the entire fisheries value chain by helping fishermen preserving the freshness and quality of their catch while improving operational efficiency. The CEO emphasised that enhanced fish handling and storage capacity will increase household incomes, boost food security, create employment opportunities and will support sustainable socio-economic growth across the region.
Msambweni Member of Parliament – Feisal Bader attended the ceremony and commended KPA for its continued support to the local fishing community. He described the project as a game changer for residents and the local economy.
The legislator stated that this initiative aligns with the Government’s efforts to unlock the potential of the blue economy and create sustainable livelihoods for coastal communities. Bader noted that the project reflects growing efforts to diversify maritime sector investments beyond traditional port operations by promoting fisheries development and strengthening other blue economy value chains.
Leaders present at the event called on the beneficiaries of the project to ensure proper management and maintenance of the facility to maximize its benefits and guarantee its sustainability for future generations. The handover marks another milestone in KPA’s commitment to empower communities through strategic investments that promote economic growth, environmental sustainability and social development along Kenya’s coastline.