Hundreds of fisherfolk in Msambweni Constituency are set to benefit from a modern fisheries infrastructure facility handed over today by the Kenya Ports Authority. The multimillion-shilling investment aims at transforming the local fishing industry and enhancing livelihoods.
The new facility, constructed under KPA's Corporate Social Investment (CSI) programme, is expected to significantly improve fish handling, preservation, and market access for fishermen and fish traders in the area. The project is designed to address longstanding challenges facing fishing communities, including inadequate fish preservation facilities, limited storage capacity, and lack of modern fishing equipment.
Speaking during the handover ceremony, KPA Chief Executive Officer Capt. William Ruto said the investment underscores the Authority's commitment to supporting communities while contributing to the Government's agenda of expanding Kenya's blue economy. "This project is more than an investment in infrastructure.
It is an investment in people, livelihoods, and the future of our coastal communities," said Capt. Ruto. 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 comprises 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 preserve the freshness and quality of their catch while improving operational efficiency. The CEO emphasized that enhanced fish handling and storage capacity will increase household incomes, boost food security, create employment opportunities, and support sustainable socio-economic growth across the region.
The Msambweni Member of Parliament Hon. Feisal Bader, who attended the ceremony, commended KPA for its continued support to the local fishing community, describing the project as a game changer for residents and the local economy. "This initiative aligns with the Government's efforts to unlock the potential of the blue economy and create sustainable livelihoods for coastal communities," said the legislator.
Hon. 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.