Gov't starts construction of modern fish landing site in Mombasa

Mombasa's fishing industry has opened a new chapter with the groundbreaking ceremony for the Kidongo Fish Landing Site in Kisauni Constituency.

The project, set to cost Sh175 million, is expected to provide a state-of-the-art facility that will transform the livelihoods of local fishermen.

The Tuesday ceremony was presided over by the Cabinet Secretary for Fisheries and Blue Economy Hassan Joho, and the PS for Blue Economy and Fisheries Betsy Njagi, who emphasized the government's commitment to modernizing Kenya's fishing industry.

"As a Ministry, we prioritise the transformation of the fishing subsector, while creating jobs and opportunities for women and the youth," said Njagi.

Adding that the facility, once completed, will empower the fishermen in Kisauni, improving their productivity and market access.

The Kidongo Fish Landing Site will include an ice-making machine and a large cold storage room to ensure that the catch can be preserved for longer periods, increasing its market value.

The cold storage facility is expected to reduce the current post-harvest losses that local fishermen often face due to lack of adequate preservation methods.

Mombasa Governor Abdulswamad Sherrif Nassir, who was also present at the event, welcomed the project, highlighting its potential to not only boost the local economy but also improve the livelihoods of women and youth in the area.

"Fishing is not only a source of income for many families in Mombasa, but it also plays a vital role in our local food security," said Governor Nassir.

He said the project aligns with our vision for a prosperous and sustainable blue economy.

Also present at the groundbreaking ceremony were several political leaders, including Kisauni MP Rashid Bedzimba, Likoni MP Mishi Mboko, Mvita MP Machele Mohamed, and Mombasa County Assembly Speaker Aharub Khatri, Senator Faki Mwinyihaji and Woman Representative Zamzam Mohammed also joined in the celebrations.

Mr Bedzimba expressed optimism about the benefits the project would bring to the local community.

"This landing site will create employment opportunities, not only for fishermen but also for the youth and women in the area who will be involved in processing, marketing, and distribution of fish," Mr Bedzimba noted.

The project is also expected to attract investments in the fisheries value chain, providing opportunities for local entrepreneurs to thrive.

Bamburi Ward MCA Patrick Mbelle emphasized that the development of such infrastructure was a key part of the county’s long-term economic growth plan.

“The cold storage and ice-making facilities will provide a much-needed boost to the fishermen here in Kisauni. It will help them preserve their catch, ensuring that they do not  have to sell at throwaway prices due to lack of refrigeration," said Mr Mbelle.

Once completed, the Kidongo Fish Landing Site will not only modernise the fishing industry in Mombasa, but will serve as a model for future fishery projects along Kenya’s coastline.

The project is expected to be completed in the next 12 months, offering hope to many families who depend on fishing as their primary source of livelihood.

The government has pledged to continue supporting initiatives that empower local communities, enhance productivity in the blue economy, and create sustainable jobs for the youth and women.