NAIROBI,Kenya,May 31– The government has pledged to expedite the construction of modern fish landing sites in Homa Bay County as part of a broader plan to boost the blue economy and empower local communities that rely on Lake Victoria for their livelihoods.
Speaking in Homa Bay ahead of the 62nd Madaraka Day celebrations, Government Spokesperson Isaac Mwaura announced that the state is investing Sh1.5 billion in the development of landing sites at Wakula, Mainuga, and Nyadhiwa.
These sites will be equipped with modern facilities such as cold storage units and fish processing plants to reduce post-harvest losses and increase income for local fishers.
“Lake Victoria is a lifeline for the people of Homa Bay. The government is committed to sustainable fisheries that enhance livelihoods and promote food security,” Mwaura said.
Additionally,Mwaura disclosed that the government is keen on promoting financial empowerment in the as part of its economic transformation agenda.
He asserted that already a total of Sh3.2 billion in grants has been disbursed to 1,260 Common Interest Groups (CIGs) in five coastal counties, with plans to extend similar support to Beach Management Units (BMUs) around Lake Victoria.
These BMUs are being transitioned into cooperatives to help fishers like Mary Adhiambo access affordable loans and invest in better equipment.
Likewise,Mwaura highlighted the government’s aggressive push to scale up aquaculture in Homa Bay under the Aquaculture Business Development Programme (ABDP) supported by the International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD).
Over 12,000 geomembrane pond liners and more than 105,000 bags of fish feed have been distributed to small-scale farmers in 15 counties.
Similarly the government spokesperson affirmed that the. construction of the Sh1.3 million Kabonyo Fisheries and Aquaculture Service and Training Center of Excellence (KFASTCE) is steadily progressing.
The project, funded by the Government of Hungary, is 17.5% complete.
Once finished, it will train youth like Michael Otieno in modern aquaculture techniques, fostering entrepreneurship and job creation.
