(Photos) Security heightened as new coast guard station launched in Mbita

The State has opened a new Kenya Coast Guard Station to enhance blue economy in Lake Victoria in Mbita, Homa Bay County.

The station is expected to create conducive environment for users of the lake by undertaking security patrol and safety operations.

The station will serve Homa Bay, Siaya and Migori counties which border the lake.

The Director General of the Kenya Coastguard Service Loonena Naisho said they expect to improve security in the lake for sustainable economic production.

Three new boats were also unveiled during the occasion.

The boats included MV Mageta, MV Migingo and MV Mkaguzi. They will be used for patrol by the security officers.

The MV Mageta was taken to Mageta Island in Siaya, while the remaining two boats are stationed in Mbita to take care of Homa Bay and Migori counties.

Speaking at Mbita point during the launch exercise on Friday, Naisho said the station will make it easier to reduce crime in the lake.

“Establishment of this station will enable our officers to patrol in the lake to eradicate illegal activities undertaken in Lake Victoria. It’s important to note that it’s for the important of our people,” Naisho said.

The director general said they will focus on enforcing compliance on use of recommended fishing gear in order to protect Lake Victoria ecosystem.

“Illegal fishing methods destroy fish which should grow thereby depleting the lake. We must fight illegal fishing methods because that is the only way the future generations can benefit from this lake,” he added.

Homa Bay County Commissioner Moses Lilan said the station will enhance blue economy in Lake Victoria by creating conducive environment for fishermen and transport operators in the lake.

He said the enhanced security services will enable residents to use the lake efficiently.

“The government is focusing on blue economy. Proper utilization of this lake will help us achieve the agenda,” Lilan said.

He said the station will enable the officers to protect fishermen from harassment by security officers from Uganda and Tanzania.