By Caroline Katana
Kenya’s government has pumped unprecedented funding into the fisheries sector, with more than KSh 3.2 billion in grants channeled to Beach Management Units (BMUs) across ten counties to transform one of the country’s most vital economic lifelines.
Deputy President Prof. Kithure Kindiki declared that no administration in Kenya’s history has invested more in fisheries than President Dr. William Ruto’s government.
“No other government has invested as heavily in fisheries as the one led by President Ruto. We have already disbursed funds to BMUs in Kwale, Kilifi, Tana River, Mombasa, Lamu, as well as Kisumu, Homa Bay, Migori, Siaya, and Busia.” DP Kindiki told thousands gathered at Denmark ground, Matuga, Kwale County, during a women’s economic empowerment event
Transforming Landing Sites Along Kenya’s Coast
The Deputy President announced that key landing sites in Vanga, Mwaepe, Kibuyuni and Gazi have been completed to support small-scale fishers with safe offloading points, cold storage facilities, and modern fishing gear.
“We are giving our fishermen the infrastructure they need — from storage to proper gear — so they can compete and earn more,” he said.
Other landing sites are still under construction, part of a wider effort to modernise fishing hubs and increase fish supply chains.
Shimoni Port Set to Become Deep-Sea Fishing Hub
Kindiki confirmed that construction of the KSh 2.6 billion Shimoni Fishing Port is complete and will be officially opened by President Ruto in the coming weeks. The port is expected to handle large deep-sea catches, a game-changer for Kenya’s marine economy.
“The president has directed Cabinet Secretary Ali Hassan Joho to expedite the purchase of deep-sea fishing vessels to tap into the lucrative offshore fishing industry,” he said.
Training the Next Generation of Marine Experts
Two major maritime training facilities are under development:
The Marine Culture Resource and Training Centre in Shimoni is 40% complete, costing KSh 1.3 billion.
Center for Marine Transport and Port Logistics in Kombani — 85% complete.
“We want our youth trained in marine transport, port management, and blue economy skills, so they can get jobs and grow the economy,” Kindiki said.
Beyond Fisheries: Development Across Kwale
The Deputy President also outlined ongoing county-wide projects:
Affordable student housing for Matuga TVC, KMTC, and KSG learners, funded through local MP initiatives.
Resumption of the Kwale–Kinango and Kinango–Lungalunga road projects after settling contractor arrears.
A KSh 1.5 billion rural electrification plan to connect 12,800 households.
Universal Health Coverage Push
Kindiki urged Kwale residents to register for the National Health Insurance (UHC) scheme, noting that although 250,000 residents have enrolled, over 500,000 remain uncovered.
“Every Kenyan should have health insurance to reduce the burden of medical costs,” he said, adding that the President has pledged to equip and stock all public hospitals.
Women’s Empowerment and Unity Appeal
Over KSh 5 million was raised during the event, including KSh 2.5 million from the President’s Office and KSh 1.2 million from the Deputy President personally, to boost women’s groups in Kwale.
At the same time, the deputy president also called for political unity:
“Reject divisive politics and support leaders working to deliver development. The time for empty rhetoric is over.”
Fisheries: A Lifeline for Millions
According to recent data, small-scale fisheries along Kenya’s coast employ over 14,000 fishers and support up to 80% of rural coastal households. Nationally, more than 2.5 million Kenyans — including traders, processors, and dependents — rely on fisheries for their livelihoods.
Experts say the government’s latest investments could transform the sector from subsistence-level survival to a sustainable, commercial blue economy powerhouse.
