The Kilifi Central Fish Landing Site and Blue Economy Office Complex is a step closer to becoming operational after the completion of construction under the World Bank-supported Kenya Marine Fisheries and Socio-Economic Development (KEMFSED) Project.
In an update on Thursday, August 6, Interior Principal Secretary Raymond Omollo said the modern facility is currently awaiting formal handover to the County Government of Kilifi.
Omollo said the facility has been strategically established in Kilifi Town and equipped with renewable energy infrastructure to improve fisheries management while supporting the Blue Economy.
"Strategically located near the Old Ferry landing site in Kilifi Town, the solar-powered facility is designed to strengthen fisheries management, improve fish handling and support the growth of the Blue Economy," he wrote.
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Omollo noted that the complex has been designed to provide multiple government services under one roof, making it easier for stakeholders to access essential services related to the fisheries sector.
"The complex will serve as a one-stop centre for key public services, including fisheries licensing and registration, coordination of Beach Management Units (BMUs), enforcement of fisheries regulations and delivery of government services to coastal communities," he added.
Omollo added that once the handover process is complete and the facility begins operations, it is expected to improve efficiency across the fisheries value chain.
"Once operational, the facility is expected to enhance service delivery, improve compliance within the fisheries sector and create a more efficient environment for fishers, traders and other stakeholders along the value chain," he concluded.
This comes days after Omollo announced that Shimoni Fish Port in Kwale County has been officially handed over to the Kenya Ports Authority (KPA) following the completion of construction.
In a statement on Saturday, August 1, he said the facility is the country's first industrial maritime hub dedicated entirely to commercial fishing and fish processing.
"As the country's first industrial maritime hub dedicated exclusively to commercial fishing and fish processing, the facility is expected to transform the coastal fisheries sector and strengthen Kenya's position in regional and international seafood markets," the statement read.
Omollo noted that the port has been equipped with modern infrastructure capable of supporting large-scale fish handling, processing, storage, and sustainable maritime operations.
"Designed to handle up to 50,000 metric tons of fish annually, the port features a modern commercial jetty and causeway, a fish processing and value-addition facility, industrial cold storage and ice-making systems, as well as supporting infrastructure for efficient and environmentally sustainable operations," the statement added.
Omollo further said the project also included improvements to community infrastructure to ensure local fishermen and marine tourism operators continue accessing the waterfront while benefiting from the development.
According to the PS, the project is also expected to create employment and strengthen livelihoods across the fisheries sector.
"The project also upgraded the community jetty, ensuring continued access for artisanal fishers and marine tourism operators.
"The port is projected to create up to 1,000 direct and indirect jobs, opening new economic opportunities for coastal communities and supporting livelihoods across the fisheries value chain," the statement further read.
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