Deputy President Kithure Kindiki on Tuesday inspected the ongoing construction of the Ksh 1.3 billion Kabonyo Fisheries Aquaculture and Training Centre in Kisumu County, urging contractors to speed up the project to ensure timely delivery and maximize its benefits for local communities.
The facility, which is part of the government’s flagship initiatives to revitalize Kenya’s blue economy, is currently 15 percent complete. Once finalized by June 2026, the centre will play a key role in boosting fish production in Lake Victoria and its environs by producing 28 million fingerlings annually. These fingerlings will support aquaculture, cage culture, and lake restocking initiatives, benefiting both small- and large-scale fish farmers.
“Once complete, this facility will supply fingerlings and quality fish feed to support fish farmers across the region. It is a significant investment in the long-term sustainability of the fisheries sector,” said Deputy President Kindiki during the inspection.
The Kabonyo Fisheries Aquaculture and Training Centre is expected to serve as a hub for research, training, and fingerling production, empowering fisherfolk and improving livelihoods across Kisumu, Siaya, Migori, Homa Bay, and Busia counties. These counties heavily rely on Lake Victoria’s resources for economic and food security.
In addition to the aquaculture centre, DP Kindiki revealed that construction will soon begin on modern fish landing sites equipped with cold storage facilities. These will help reduce post-harvest losses and improve the quality and marketability of fish products.
The project underscores the government’s commitment to enhancing food security, creating employment, and stimulating economic development through sustainable exploitation of Kenya’s aquatic resources.
“The fisheries sector holds immense potential for job creation and economic transformation. This project is a clear demonstration of the government’s commitment to uplifting lake region communities and driving growth through the blue economy,” Deputy President Kindiki stated.
With ongoing investments in fisheries infrastructure, the government hopes to position Kenya as a regional leader in sustainable aquaculture and marine resource management.
