Kisumu Ushers in New Era for Blue Economy with Fleet Upgrade and Modernized Ports
The County Government of Kisumu has taken a significant leap in revitalizing its blue economy sector with the official commissioning of six new modern passenger boats and the completion of major upgrades to key landing sites. Governor Anyang’ Nyong’o presided over the ceremony at the newly refurbished Oile Pier, marking a multi-million shilling investment aimed at boosting lake transport, enhancing safety, and stimulating local economic activities. The new fleet is expected to drastically reduce travel time to destinations like Homa Bay and Kendu Bay, providing a reliable alternative to road transport.
The project, funded through a partnership between the county and the national government, involved the comprehensive rehabilitation of landing sites at Oile, Lwang’ni Beach, and Dunga. Upgrades include the construction of concrete jetties, modern sanitation blocks, designated fish cooling and selling areas, and improved lighting to allow for extended operating hours. For decades, our fishermen and boat operators have worked with dilapidated infrastructure, risking their lives on unseaworthy vessels. Today, we turn a new page, stated Governor Nyong’o. The new boats, which are equipped with life jackets and communication equipment, will be managed by registered cooperative societies to ensure organized operations.
The initiative has been met with widespread enthusiasm from boat operators, fishermen, and traders. Jane Atieno, a fishmonger at Dunga Beach, expressed her relief, stating, The new cold storage facility means my fish will stay fresh longer, and I can sell more. The new pier also makes it easier for customers to access us. The Lake Victoria Water Transport Workers Union also welcomed the move, highlighting that the modern, safer vessels will help curb the frequent boat accidents that have claimed lives on the lake. They urged the county to enforce strict maintenance schedules to ensure the sustainability of the new fleet.
Looking forward, the county administration has announced plans to integrate digital booking and payment systems for the new boats to improve efficiency and transparency. This project is seen as a cornerstone of the broader strategy to position Kisumu as a hub for blue economy investment and sustainable tourism. This is not the end, but the beginning. We are committed to ensuring that Lake Victoria is not just a body of water, but a highway for prosperity, food security, and safe travel for our people, Governor Nyong’o added, signaling further investments in the sector are on the horizon.