This archive report was first published on 2 July 2021.
Kenya Ports Authority (KPA) has embarked on a major revamp of the Shimoni fishing port in Kwale County, with the project attracting 16 construction firms.
The Sh20 billion project, which is expected to be completed in 24 months, will see the construction of a modern fishing harbour and a fish market where fishermen can sell their stocks.
According to KPA General Manager for Infrastructure Development Vincent Sidai, Phase 1 of the project will start next month, with all mandatory requirements including feasibility studies and environmental impact assessments having been met.
Speaking at a public stakeholders' forum held on Wednesday in Shimoni, Sidai assured locals that the government was committed to the timely completion of the project, which will come with many and diverse business opportunities.
Coast Regional Coordinator John Elungata and Kwale County Executive Committee member for Roads and Public Works Hemedi Mwabudzo also expressed support for the project, with Elungata encouraging residents to embrace it and Mwabudzo assuring that the county would work closely with KPA to ensure its completion on time.
Lunga Lunga MP Khatib Mwashetani, who represents the area where the project is domiciled, expressed satisfaction at the implementation efforts of the project and called on the government to consider providing modern fishing gear for the locals.
Published on July 2, 2021.
