Kenya Ports Authority (KPA) has commenced construction of the Usenge Pier in Bondo, Siaya County, following a groundbreaking ceremony led by President William Ruto. The KES 600 million development represents a significant investment in Lake Victoria's maritime infrastructure and is scheduled for delivery in two phases, with the first phase targeted for completion within six months.
Speaking at the ceremony, President Ruto outlined the project's scope following a detailed presentation on the facility's design by KPA Managing Director Capt. William K. Ruto. The Usenge Pier will function as both a modern fish landing site and an integrated lake transport hub, facilitating passenger connections between Luanda K'otieno, Mbita, Homa Bay, Sena, and Kisumu.
Upon completion, the facility is expected to reduce road transport time from Kisumu by half an hour, with water bus and ferry services operating alongside other scheduled landing sites. The development aims to position Lake Victoria as a viable corridor for port logistics, cargo handling, passenger movement, and fish processing operations.
Phase one of the project encompasses earthworks including cut, fill, and leveling activities, along with perimeter wall installation, construction of a main gate and guard house, landscaping, and development of a 25-meter-wide by 200-meter-long jetty structure. The second phase will see the addition of cold storage facilities, dryers, and additional storage infrastructure.
The initiative aligns with the government's strategy to strengthen trade, generate employment opportunities, promote tourism, and advance the region's blue economy. KPA is leading implementation, with upgrades to smaller lake ports already underway following the launch of Homa Bay Pier's first phase in May 2025. Similar infrastructure developments are planned across Sio Port, Asembo Bay, Mbita, Muhuru Bay, Karugu, and Luanda K'Otieno, creating a connected network of maritime nodes across the lake region.