Kenya Ports Authority (KPA) has completed the construction of the Sh2.6 billion Shimoni Fish Port project, in the coastal county of Kwale.
The construction of the Fish Port marks a significant milestone in the efforts to harness the potential of the Blue Economy Sector which encompasses fisheries, maritime biotechnology, aquaculture, tourism and marine transport and logistics.
The Shimoni Port project, was developed by KPA with Southern Engineering Company Ltd (SECO) as the contractor.
The Fish Port is a key part of the National government’s broader vision, to build a strong economic foundation and by investing in critical infrastructure, including ports, the government seeks to improve sustainable growth and empower local industries.
Once operational, the Port is expected to boost fish production, processing, and value addition, thereby, creating jobs and stimulating economic growth in the South Coast.
The project which comes with marine and civil infrastructure will be a big boost for the fishing industry in the country.
The new fishing port includes a wharf and other facilities designed to meet international standards from boating to packaging. It also features a jetty and a wharf for berthing fishing vessels, administration offices and toilet blocks.
According to KPA Ag. Manager Corporate Communications, Jones Buchere, the completion of the Shimoni Fishing Port is set to revolutionize Kwale’s role in the blue economy, by providing modern onshore facilities, including fish storage and processing units.
Buchere says the new port project, will enable the local fishing industry to thrive, allowing for larger vessels to dock and enhancing the capacity for export.
“The new dedicated fishing port will significantly boost the economy, create jobs and improve livelihoods for the coastal communities,” he said.
Buchere was speaking when senior managers of KPA, conducted an inspection tour of the new facility, ahead of its official handing over by the marine constructor.
He says the KPA’s role in transforming Shimoni into a regional fishing hub, aligns with the broader government goals of modernising port facilities and encouraging sustainable industry practices.
Buchere said the modern port is dedicated solely to fish production; processing and value addition which will transform the local economy, increasing opportunities for the exportation of the finished products to the region, as well as meeting local consumption.
Key infrastructure under the project includes a jetty measuring 75-meter by 30-meter and a 135-meter causeway, capable of berthing two fishing vessels simultaneously.
He said additional critical facilities at the port include; a dedicated fish processing plant, cold storage units, reefer stations, a power substation, an ice-making plant, a bio-digester, and wastewater management system.
“The Shimoni Fish Port is poised to transform the region’s fishing industry by improving efficiency, reducing post-harvest losses, and creating new economic opportunities,” he said.
Buchere further said the fish port would directly benefit local communities by creating jobs for locals and generating enormous revenue in the coming years.
All concrete sidewalks have been completed, and public sidewalks equipped with high specifications, including electricity and water services have also been installed.
The Shimoni Fish Port project aims to achieve economic diversification and create an attractive environment for investments and exploitation of fishery resources in the coastal region.
For Shimoni, a town traditionally dependent on small-scale fishing, the project, the biggest fishing harbour constructed in the region, offers hope for long-term economic stability.
Area Governor, Fatuma Achani, expressed hope that the Fishing Port would contribute to supporting the local and national economy, revitalizing the economic movement in the coastal region and providing new job opportunities for the citizens.
Achani welcomed the completion of the major fish port project, highlighting its significance for the coastal region’s economic development and commercial activities.
The County Boss says the new fishing port, will utilize the potential of the Mombasa commercial seaport, to facilitate the export of fish.
By Hussein Abdullahi
