Mining CS Hassan Joho and Defence CS Soipan Tuya at the launch /HANDOUT
Kenya Shipyards Limited in partnership with Bangladesh-based Karnafuly Ship Builders Limited has started building a 29-metre ferry to enhance safe and efficient transport for passengers and vehicles across Lake Victoria.
The milestone was marked with a keel-laying ceremony at Kisumu Shipyard, signalling the start of the vessel’s physical construction.
The high-profile event was presided over by Defence Cabinet Secretary Soipan Tuya and Mining and Blue Economy Cabinet Secretary Hassan Joho.
Also in attendance was Homa Bay Governor Gladys Wanga and Kisumu Deputy Governor Mathews Owili.
Tuya praised the project as a landmark initiative in Kenya’s maritime development and a catalyst for regional integration.
“Today’s keel-laying exercise for the construction of a 29-metre ferry is a testament that indeed we are on course towards the attainment of the ambition,” she said.
She said the ferry will not only serve as a mode of transport for Kenya and its Lake Victoria neighbours – Tanzania and Uganda – but will also represent Kenya’s growing commitment to industrial growth and maritime excellence.
Tuya described the keel as a symbol of strength and direction, saying the project marks the rise of a vibrant shipbuilding enterprise at the Port of Kisumu.
“Lake Victoria supports over 40 million people across Kenya, Uganda and Tanzania, yet maritime infrastructure remains underdeveloped. This ferry is a direct response to that challenge, a strategic investment in mobility, commerce, industrialisation and integration,” she said.
The ferry, classified under Bureau Veritas, will be designed to accommodate passengers and vehicles, improving safety and dependability in cross-border lake travel.
It is expected to boost intermodal transport and facilitate economic activities.
“Every weld you place will support economic movement, every plate you align will strengthen the corridors of trade,” Tuya told KSL engineers.
“Build not only with precision but with pride. This ferry is yours, to connect, empower and carry your aspirations across the great expanse of progress.”
The vessel’s construction will follow a structured process starting with design, procurement of materials, modular assembly, outfitting, painting, sea trials and finally, commissioning.
The CS described the ferry as more than infrastructure, but a foundation for expanding Kenya’s shipbuilding portfolio and creating high-value jobs under the Bottom-Up Economic Transformation Agenda.
“This is a long-term investment in self-reliance and regional leadership. Let us all support this transformation so that tomorrow, Kenya’s maritime industry sails further and serves more.”
Joho said the project will and reduce transport costs within the lake region.
He said the ferry will provide a safer, faster and more cost-effective transport alternative.
Governor Wanga welcomed the move, saying it will open up access for island communities in Homa Bay county currently locked out of public transport.
She said the ferry will be a lifeline for isolated populations.
Kisumu Deputy Governor Mathews Owili urged the Kenya Ports Authority to consider building an additional ferry specifically for Kisumu, citing growing demand.
He said the county is committed to supporting KSL through continued collaboration in the construction of fishing boats and maritime infrastructure.
The project is expected to significantly elevate Kenya’s maritime profile and strengthen its position in the regional and global shipbuilding economy.
