The Kisumu County Government has launched the first phase of the Lake Victoria Economic Revitalization Project, a transformative initiative aimed at modernizing fishing and marine transport to unlock the region’s vast economic potential.
Speaking at the launch on Tuesday, Kenya Shipyard Limited CEO Major General S. Farah, alongside senior officials from the Kenya Defense Forces, national and county governments, and key stakeholders, underscored the project’s significance in boosting sustainable economic growth.
Fiberglass Boats to Replace Traditional Wooden Vessels
As part of the initiative, Kisumu Governor Prof. Peter Anyang’ Nyong’o announced that the county has contracted Kenya Shipyard Limited to fabricate and supply six modern fiberglass boats to enhance fishing operations.
Five of these boats will be distributed to fishermen in Kisumu Central, Seme, Kisumu West, Nyakach, and Kadibo sub-counties, while the sixth will be used by the Directorate of Fisheries for monitoring and surveillance.
“These boats, fitted with 25 to 40-horsepower engines, are fully equipped with cooler boxes capable of storing up to 500 kilograms of fish, as well as life jackets, flares, and other safety gear,” Nyong’o stated.
The governor emphasized the county’s plan to phase out wooden boats, citing their role in numerous fatal accidents on the lake.
“Our goal is to transition fishermen and lake transport operators to fiberglass vessels, which are safer and more efficient. Wooden boats have cost too many lives, and it is time for change,” he declared.
New Landing Sites to Improve Accessibility and Trade
Governor Nyong’o also announced the construction of five new landing sites to enhance fishing accessibility and boost the blue economy.
The sites will be strategically located at:
- Kichinjio Beach (Kisumu Central) – Commissioned during the event
- Nanga Beach (Seme Sub-County)
- Rota Beach (Kisumu West Sub-County)
- Koguta Beach (Nyakach Sub-County)
- Nyamware Beach (Kadibo Sub-County)
“These landing sites will improve transportation, safety, and efficiency in the fishing industry, ultimately driving sustainable economic development,” Nyong’o stated.
Next Step: Fish Processing Plant to Boost Employment
The governor further revealed that the county plans to establish a fish processing plant to offer cold storage, value-added processing, waste management, and logistical support.
“This facility will revolutionize the fisheries sector, create jobs, enhance food security, and significantly improve the livelihoods of our people,” he affirmed.
46-Kilometer Promenade to Spur Investment and Tourism
Another major component of the project is the construction of a 46-kilometer lakefront promenade, which will serve as a catalyst for tourism, trade, and regional collaboration.
“This ‘umbilical project’ will be the backbone of Kisumu’s lakefront development, linking all initiatives and attracting local and international investors,” Nyong’o noted.
Kisumu Lakefront Development Corporation (KLDC) to Oversee Projects
The Kisumu Lakefront Development Corporation (KLDC), a special-purpose vehicle created to manage the economic and social activities along the lake, will spearhead the revitalization efforts.
“Lake Victoria is one of the world’s most valuable natural resources, and through KLDC, we aim to attract investments, create jobs, enhance food security, and strengthen regional partnerships,” the governor stated.
Call for Partnerships
Governor Nyong’o invited local and international investors to collaborate in transforming Kisumu’s lakefront into a vibrant economic hub.
“Together, we can turn Lake Victoria into a global model for sustainable blue economy development,” he concluded.
With these ambitious projects, Kisumu is set to become a regional leader in marine transport, fishing, and lakefront tourism, paving the way for long-term economic prosperity.
