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Deputy President Kithure Kindiki has conducted an inspection tour of major marine and fisheries development projects in Shimoni, Lunga Lunga Constituency, Kwale County.
During the Saturday visit, he directed contractors to fast-track the works and uphold high construction standards to ensure the projects deliver their intended impact.
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The tour centred on flagship blue economy initiatives targeting improved livelihoods in the coastal belt, where many families rely on fishing and marine activities for income.
Kindiki noted that over the last three years, the government has channelled billions of shillings into strengthening the fisheries sector, empowering fisherfolk and expanding value chains connected to the Indian Ocean.
Among the key projects he reviewed was the Sh2.7 billion Shimoni Fish Port, which has been completed and is awaiting commissioning. The facility is expected to improve fish handling, storage and export capacity, enabling local fishermen to access regional and global markets.
He also assessed progress at the Sh1.4 billion National Marine Culture Research Centre of Excellence in Shimoni, which is about 70 per cent complete.
In a statement, the Deputy President said he had inspected the ongoing construction at the centre and stressed the importance of meeting timelines and maintaining quality, describing it as a game-changer for marine research and aquaculture.
Kindiki further highlighted other investments in Kwale County, including the release of Sh652 million to Beach Management Units to support 221 fisherfolk business groups.
The government has also acquired and distributed 70 onshore fishing boats and secured a search and rescue vessel to enhance maritime safety. He added that procurement of three deep-sea fishing vessels for Kwale fishermen is in progress.
Additionally, he toured the Sh600 million Maritime Academy on Port Logistics in Kombani, now 95 per cent complete. The academy is expected to equip youth with technical skills in maritime operations and logistics, enabling them to benefit from opportunities within the expanding blue economy.
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Other initiatives include the completed Sh53 million Kibuyuni Fish Landing Site and Seaweed Store, as well as the Sh255 million Mwaepe Fish Landing Site, currently halfway complete.
Accompanied by Cabinet Secretary Salim Mvurya and Kwale Governor Fatuma Achani, the Deputy President reaffirmed the government’s resolve to uplift coastal communities through sustainable utilisation of marine resources.
He said the projects are aimed at modernising fishing infrastructure, creating employment opportunities, boosting incomes and driving economic growth in Kwale County and across the coastal region.
