KPA completes construction of Sh2.6b Shimoni fish port
Hussein Abdullahi-KNA
Kenya Ports Authority (KPA) has completed the construction of the Sh2.6 billion Shimoni Fish Port project in Kwale.
The port is a significant milestone in efforts to harness the Blue Economy that comprises fisheries, maritime biotechnology, aquaculture, tourism and marine transport and logistics.
KPA, in partnership with Southern Engineering Company Ltd (SECO), developed a project that is expected to boost fish production, processing, and value addition.
The project, which comes with marine and civil infrastructure, will be a big boost for the fishing industry in the country. It is part of the national government's broader vision to build a strong economic foundation and invest in critical infrastructure including ports.
The government seeks to improve sustainable growth and empower local industries by creating jobs and stimulating economic growth in the South Coast, said KPA Ag. Manager Corporate Communications, Jones Buchere.
Accompanying senior KPA managers on an inspection tour of the new facility, Buchere said completing the Shimoni Fishing Port will revolutionize Kwale’s role in the blue economy by delivering modern onshore facilities, including fish storage and processing units.
It will enable the local fishing industry to thrive, allowing larger vessels to dock and enhance 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 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.
KPA is transforming Shimoni into a regional fishing hub by aligning it with the broader government’s goal of modernizing port facilities and encouraging sustainable industrial practices.
Key infrastructure under the project includes a jetty measuring 75 meters by 30 meters and a 135-meter causeway, capable of berthing two fishing vessels simultaneously.
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 a wastewater management system.
The port is poised to transform the region’s fishing industry by improving efficiency, reducing post-harvest losses, and creating new economic opportunities.
It will directly benefit local communities by creating jobs for locals and generating enormous revenue thus offering hope for long-term economic stability.
Kwale Governor, Fatuma Achani, further highlighted the project’s significance for the coastal region's economic development and commercial activities.
She expressed hope that the fishing port would contribute to supporting the local and national economy.
She said it will utilize the potential of the Mombasa commercial seaport, to facilitate the export of fish.
The governor added that all concrete sidewalks have been completed, and public sidewalks equipped with high specifications, including the installation of electricity and water services.