This flagship project, which has been funded with a budget of 2.6 billion shillings by the Kenya Ports Authority (KPA), aims to harness the potential of the Blue Economy by significantly enhancing fish production, processing, and value addition, both locally and for the export market. Located in the southeastern coast of Kenya bordering Tanzania, the Shimoni community relies heavily on fishing for daily sustenance. However, for the longest time the community has been limited to subsistence fishing due to challenges with processing and storage leading to wastage and loss of resources.
With the national government’s support, the project’s intent is to build structures and transform the industry into a more viable, sustainable and profitable one for the country and region at large. The development of the Shimoni fish port is also to empower the community through creation of jobs both directly and indirectly.
The industrial fishing port infrastructure will comprise construction of a multi-purpose berth that will incorporate fish and conventional cargo handling. The modern jetty will measure 75 meters by 30 meters, along with a causeway that spans 135 meters in length and 7 meters in width. Moreover, the facility will house a dedicated warehouse that will serve as a fish processing plant. Additionally, it will feature a fish market, cold storage facilities, reefer stations and an ice-making plant. These amenities are designed to support the entire fish value chain and enhance value addition ensuring that fish can be processed, stored, and transported in optimal conditions. These infrastructure additions will bolster the port’s efficiency and capacity.
The Shimoni port is projected to handle an annual throughput of 50,000 metric tons upon completion expected towards the end of 2024. The project is anticipated to provide a significant boost to the local economy, creating employment opportunities and driving economic growth in the region. Furthermore, by promoting fish production and value addition, the port will contribute to the sustainable development of the country’s Blue Economy.