(Kwale) – The construction of the KSh 2.6 billion Shimoni Fish Port, an initiative aimed at boosting Kenya’s coastal economy and transforming the fishing industry, is now 80% complete. The project is expected to create economic opportunities in the south coast region by expanding fish production and processing capabilities.
Kenya Ports Authority (KPA) Managing Director Capt. William Ruto emphasized the government’s commitment to the welfare of the Shimoni community and the wider region. Capt. Ruto noted that the port will stimulate fish production and support the processing and value-addition activities that will bring more jobs and economic benefits to the area.
The port’s features are designed to strengthen Kenya’s fishing sector, with plans for a multi-purpose berth, a modern jetty, a warehouse, a fish market, cold storage facilities, reefer stations, and ice-making plants. These facilities will enable the efficient processing and storage of up to 50,000 metric tons of fish annually—equivalent to around 1,000 lorry loads, destined for both local and international markets.
| Facility Features | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Multi-purpose berth | Vessel docking and unloading |
| Modern jetty | Streamlined port access |
| Warehouse | Fish processing and storage |
| Fish market | Local fish sales hub |
| Cold storage facilities | Preserving fish quality for export |
| Reefer stations | Container cooling for fresh exports |
| Ice-making plants | On-demand ice for fish preservation |
“This project shows our dedication to making sure coastal communities benefit directly from Kenya’s marine resources,” Capt. Ruto said during an inspection tour alongside the KPA Board and Management. “We are not only investing in infrastructure but also in the long-term prosperity of local fishing communities.”
The construction has provided employment for hundreds of locals, with more jobs anticipated as the port nears completion. The Shimoni Fish Port is expected to offer local fishers better access to markets, improved fish-handling facilities, and greater cold-chain capacity, which will help reduce waste and increase profits for local fishers.
Shimoni, a town traditionally dependent on small-scale fishing, views this project as a beacon of economic hope and progress. The port, the largest fishing harbor constructed in the region, is anticipated to bring long-term economic stability to the area.
With construction projected to wrap up by June 2025, Capt. Ruto shared that the Shimoni Fish Port will set Kenya apart in the regional fishing industry, promoting both local consumption and fish exports. He described it as a unique facility in East Africa, one that will significantly advance Kenya’s position within the regional blue economy sector, which includes fisheries, aquaculture, maritime biotechnology, tourism, and marine transport logistics.
The government hopes that the Shimoni Fish Port will open opportunities for related industries, such as fish processing and transportation logistics, that can further support economic growth in the region.
When fully operational, the port is expected to handle an annual throughput of 50,000 metric tons of fish, a capacity that will help sustain Kenya’s blue economy ambitions by promoting sustainable development in fisheries and providing better livelihoods for fishers.
Assuring continuous support, Capt. Ruto added that KPA will persist in pursuing projects that foster the growth of Kenya’s fish industry and enhance the livelihood of local fishers.