The completion of the Sh2.6 billion Shimoni Fish Port will be a game
changer for the Coast region, the Capital Youths Caucus Association (CYCA) has
said.
CYCA Secretary General Evans Momanyi said that the new port will create
employment opportunities for thousands of youths and significantly boost the
regional economy.
“Beyond transforming the Coast’s fishing industry, Shimoni Port will open
up new economic opportunities for many young people in the region,” said
Momanyi.
Once operational, the port is expected to enhance fish production,
processing, and value addition, thereby stimulating economic growth in the South
Coast.
Momanyi praised the Kenya Ports Authority (KPA) for its inclusive approach
in managing the project.
“We commend KPA’s commitment to fairness, transparency, and inclusivity,
especially in empowering women, youth, people with disabilities, and other
vulnerable groups in the region,” he said.
He also dismissed allegations aimed at discrediting KPA’s work.
“We reject the baseless claims driven by certain individuals, allegedly
supported by local cartels, to sabotage KPA’s progress through misinformation
and incitement. Such actions only threaten the opportunities this port brings
to our communities,” Momanyi said.
The Shimoni Port project, which was developed by KPA and Southern
Engineering Company Ltd (SECO) as the contractor, is ready for
operationalization.
The modern fishing port features a wharf and jetty for berthing vessels,
administration offices, and sanitation facilities.
Key infrastructure includes a 75-meter by 30-meter jetty and a 135-meter
causeway that can accommodate two fishing vessels at once.
Additional facilities include a fish processing plant, cold storage units, reefer stations, a power substation, an ice-making plant, a bio-digester, and a wastewater management system, all designed to meet international standards.
