Artisanal fishing, a crucial livelihood for many in these areas, faces challenges like post-harvest losses due to inadequate handling, preservation, and marketing infrastructure. These challenges significantly reduce potential earnings for fishing communities.
Kenya Marine Fisheries and Socio-Economic Development (KEMFSED) project is taking critical steps to support coastal communities by enhancing infrastructure at key fish landing sites.
KEMFSED in collaboration with the counties has identified five strategic landing sites—Kilifi Central, Kidongo (Mombasa), Mwaepe (Kwale), Mokowe (Lamu), and Mwape (Kwale)—for targeted infrastructure improvements. These improvements aim to reduce post-harvest losses and boost income for the communities. Additionally, the project will establish the National Mariculture Resource and Training Centre (NAMARET) in Shimoni to further support sustainable fishery practices.
The selection of these sites followed detailed technical assessments, including environmental and social impact studies, with input from local Beach Management Units (BMUs) and stakeholders. As of now, work has begun at four of the sites, with the most recent ground-breaking event taking place in Kipini, officiated by Mining, Blue Economy and Maritime Affairs Cabinet Secretary Hon. Hassan Ali Joho on October 11, 2024.
The planned upgrades include modern facilities for fish handling and processing, such as bandas (social halls), ice plants, cold storage, and sanitation, alongside improvements in civil infrastructure like access roads and perimeter walls. The enhanced infrastructure is expected to greatly enhance fishery operations, reduce losses, improve the livelihoods of the fishing communities and increase the contribution of fisheries to the national economy.
KEMFSED will support the construction of a hatchery and training center, two components of NAMARET, an integrated facility being developed by the Kenya Marine and Fisheries Research Institute (KMFRI) that will also house laboratory, office, and accommodation blocks.
