Kenya has taken a bold step toward strengthening its blue economy with the completion of the state-of-the-art Shimoni Fish Port in Kwale County.
Constructed at a cost of KSh 2.6 billion, the port marks a pivotal investment by the Kenya Ports Authority (KPA) in marine infrastructure aimed at transforming the South Coast into a regional hub for fisheries and maritime commerce.
Built by Southern Engineering Company Ltd (SECO) and commissioned by KPA, the facility is set to usher in a new era of industrial-scale fishing, processing, and exportation.
For a region historically reliant on artisanal fishing, the new port offers a sustainable lifeline by introducing modern amenities designed to increase productivity, create jobs, and attract investment.
A Game Changer for the Blue Economy
The port’s construction aligns with Kenya’s broader strategy to unlock the potential of its blue economy—a sector that encompasses marine transport, aquaculture, tourism, biotechnology, and fisheries.
The Shimoni Fish Port is envisioned as a catalyst for coastal development, empowering local communities while generating national revenue through value-added marine exports.
“This facility is not just a port; it’s a gateway to economic transformation for our coastal communities,” said Jones Buchere, Acting Manager of Corporate Communications at KPA, during a recent inspection tour of the new facility.
“It’s designed to allow larger vessels to dock, boost fish processing and storage capacity, and enable the export of high-quality marine products.”
World-Class Infrastructure to Match Global Standards
Spanning impressive marine and civil works, the new port includes a 75-meter by 30-meter jetty, a 135-meter causeway, and berthing facilities capable of docking two fishing vessels simultaneously.
It also features a fish processing plant, cold storage units, reefer stations, an ice-making facility, power substation, bio-digester, and a modern wastewater management system.
Other supporting infrastructure includes administrative offices, public toilets, concrete sidewalks, and utility lines for electricity and clean water.
All elements have been constructed to meet international maritime and hygiene standards, positioning the port as one of the most advanced in the region.
Economic Promise for the Region
With its completion, the Shimoni Fish Port is expected to significantly reduce post-harvest losses, enhance processing capacity, and boost Kenya’s competitiveness in the regional seafood market.
The development will open up new opportunities for commercial fishing while fostering value-added production for both domestic consumption and export.
Local authorities have expressed optimism that the port will play a key role in alleviating poverty by creating direct and indirect employment.
From fishermen and transporters to processors and export agents, the ripple effect is expected to stimulate various sectors of the coastal economy.
“This port represents hope for thousands of families who rely on the ocean for their livelihoods,” said Kwale Governor Fatuma Achani. “It’s a monumental achievement for the people of Shimoni and a cornerstone for our county’s economic resurgence.”
Governor Achani also noted the strategic proximity of the Shimoni port to the Mombasa Seaport, a major logistics hub, which will facilitate seamless exports to regional and international markets.
A Future Anchored in Sustainability
Beyond the economic returns, the Shimoni project underscores a commitment to sustainable fishing practices and marine conservation.
The inclusion of modern waste and water treatment facilities is expected to mitigate environmental impact, ensuring long-term viability of marine ecosystems.
As the country positions itself to harness untapped marine resources, the completion of the Shimoni Fish Port signals Kenya’s intent to lead the blue economy conversation on the continent.
With the facility now ready for official handover and commissioning, coastal Kenya is poised to become a beacon of sustainable development and ocean-based prosperity.
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