Kisumu Governor Anyang’ Nyong’o has launched a transformative initiative to improve the fishing industry by introducing modern fiberglass boats and construction of key fish landing sites along Lake Victoria.
The initiative is aimed at enhancing safety, efficiency and economic growth for fishermen and the surrounding communities.
At the heart of the new initiative is the introduction of six modern fiberglass boats, which have been designed to replace the outdated wooden boats that have long been a staple of artisanal fishing.
“We are embarking on a transformative journey which will unlock the full potential of our blue economy,” he said.
“These boats will be equipped with 25 to 40 horsepower engines, cooler boxes capable of storing up to 500kg of fish, life jackets and other essential safety gear,” Nyong’o said.
The goal, the governor said, is to enhance safety on the lake and encourage fishermen to transition from old, unsafe wooden boats to more modern, durable fiberglass vessels.
The move to phase out wooden boats is critical - not only for improving safety - but also for reducing the number of fatal accidents on the lake.
The modern boats would play a key role in securing the future of the fishing industry in Kisumu and beyond, he added.
The Kenya Shipyard Limited will manufacture and supply the boats, he said, with five of them to be distributed to fishermen across the five subcounties of Kisumu Central, Seme, Kisumu West, Nyakach and Kadibo.
The sixth boat will be assigned to the directorate of fisheries for monitoring and surveillance.
The governor thanked stakeholders, particularly from the fishing and marine transport communities, for their continued support.
He said the projects represent a
critical step towards boosting economic growth and improving the
livelihoods of fishermen.
