The Cabinet Secretary for Mining, Maritime Affairs, and Blue Economy, Hassan Joho, alongside Kwale Governor Fatuma Achani, has launched the construction of a state-of-the-art fish landing site at Mwaepe in Kinondo Ward, Msambweni Sub-county. The Ksh256 million project is funded by the World Bank and implemented through the Kenya Marine Fisheries and Socio-Economic Development (KEMFSED) program in partnership with the Kwale County Government.
The initiative is expected to significantly boost artisanal fisheries along Kenya’s southern coast by improving fish storage and marketing while minimizing post-harvest losses. The project will feature a modern fish banda equipped with an ice plant, a gear-mending shed, a modern boatyard, a multifunctional building to house Beach Management Unit (BMU) offices, a conference room, two restaurant blocks, retail business stalls, and an ablution block.
Speaking at the launch, CS Joho commended the Kwale County Government for its commitment to enhancing the blue economy through investments in modern fishing boats, fishing gear, and accessories. He noted that these efforts have played a critical role in boosting the fishing industry and improving livelihoods for coastal communities.
Joho emphasized that the peaceful environment in Kwale has encouraged the national government to allocate significant resources to the blue economy, aligning with President William Ruto’s broader strategy to create employment opportunities for youth. He highlighted ongoing projects in the region, including the construction of the Shimoni Fishing Port, a maritime institute at Chitsakamatsa, and a mariculture institute at Shimoni.
Additionally, the CS called on local authorities to reclaim all grabbed fish landing sites, issuing a stern warning to land grabbers in Kwale that their activities would not be tolerated.
Kwale Deputy Governor Chirema Kombo, who represented Governor Achani at the event, stated that the county has provided 59 modern fishing boats and two ecotourism vessels operating in Diani and Shimoni, benefiting over 1,500 households. The new fish landing site is expected to further support these initiatives by enhancing infrastructure and creating a sustainable future for local fishers.
