This archive report was first published on 24 May 2020.
Kenya Ports Authority's ambitious plans to revamp maritime trade in Lake Victoria have hit a major roadblock due to swelling water levels that have consumed jetties around the lake. The development is a significant setback for the region's economy, which had pinned its hopes on a vibrant blue economy fostered by increased maritime trade and transport.
Among the jetties that have been completely submerged are the Homa Bay, Mbita, and Kendu ones, with the Bondo area also severely affected. The recently renovated port in Homa Bay has also been impacted, with a senior KPA official stating that the authority will have to wait until July when the budget is released before it can start planning on how to reconstruct the piers.
According to the official, the process of revamping transport in the lake will have to be delayed. The water levels have risen beyond two meters, with the Kenya Marine and Fisheries Research Institute attributing the rise to climate change and high levels of water from several rivers draining into the lake.
Experts say the Kisumu port forms an important component of an inter-modal supply chain along the Central and Northern Corridor linking Mombasa and Dar es Salaam ports. However, the port is facing its own challenges, with huge waves hitting sections of the facility and fears that it may soon be submerged.
