Governor Nyong’o’s commissioning of modern fibreglass boats and upgraded landing sites marks a significant leap for Kisumu’s blue economy. Replacing traditional wooden canoes with safer, more durable vessels will enhance fishermen’s safety and increase productivity, potentially doubling incomes. The addition of a patrol boat strengthens security and sustainability efforts on Lake Victoria, complementing national initiatives. This project highlights effective government partnerships and a clear commitment to economic empowerment, environmental stewardship and community development. By investing in infrastructure and training, Kisumu is setting a strong example for transforming regional fisheries into a sustainable, inclusive, and prosperous sector.
Kenya Shipyards Limited managing director Major General Said Farah and Kisumu Governor Anyang’ Nyong'o during the launch of Nanga Beach landing sites in Seme/FAITH MATETEKisumu Governor Anyang' Nyong’o has commissioned six modern fibreglass boats and upgraded landing sites at Kichinjio and Nanga beaches.
He said this is a transformative milestone in reimagining the blue economy for Kisumu and the larger lake region.
Speaking at Kichinjio beach, Nyong’o described the event not just as a routine ceremony but as a “watershed moment” aimed at revolutionising lake transport, fish handling and the livelihoods of fisherfolk.
He said the fibreglass boats would replace traditional wooden canoes, which, though part of the region’s heritage, have proven dangerous and economically limiting. Today, he said, Kisumu begins a new chapter focused on safer, more productive and economically empowering fishing ventures.
Five fibreglass fishing boats, each with a capacity of 1,500 kilogrammes, and a patrol boat were unveiled alongside the newly upgraded landing sites in Kisumu Central and Seme subcounty.
Nyong’o said these boats are engineered for stability, durability and deep-water navigation, promising to more than double the fishermen income while enhancing their safety.
“For too long, we have mourned our brothers lost to unpredictable waters, their wooden boats are no match for sudden storms. These new boats are not just safer, they’re economic tools that can transform entire households,” he said.
The governor also launched a patrol boat to help enforce fishing regulations, combating illegal practices and responding to distress calls.
He described it as a game changer for security and sustainability on Lake Victoria.
This patrol boat will complement the Sh3 billion Regional Maritime Rescue Coordination Centre being set up by the national government in Kisumu.
The fibreglass boats and patrol vessel were procured through a government-to-government partnership between Kisumu Lakefront Development Corporation and Kenya Shipyards Limited (KSL), a model Nyong’o praised as smart and cost-effective.
KSL managing director Major General Said Farah hailed the collaboration as a bold step towards economic empowerment, environmental sustainability and community development.
He said the boats are more stable, require low maintenance and come with better safety features, allowing fishermen to focus on their core work of feeding the community and sustaining the economy.
Farah said for a long time, fishermen have struggled with wooden boats ill-equipped to handle Lake Victoria’s harsh weather.
The upgraded landing sites in Kichinjio and Nanga will improve fish handling, sorting and storage, reducing post-harvest losses, enhancing hygiene and unlocking better market prices.
He said this project exemplifies what government partnerships and local communities can achieve together, aligning with the national blue economy strategy focused on sustainable and inclusive development of water resources.
Nyong’o urged financial institutions to create accessible loan products to help fishermen acquire fibreglass boats.
He also urged the national government to zero-rate taxes on materials used in their manufacture to make them more affordable.
Addressing beach management units, he urged responsible use and stewardship of the vessels, saying they represent a path to a more prosperous future.
Nyong’o said during the upcoming Devolution Conference in Homa Bay, the Kisumu county directorate of fisheries will display a traditional wooden canoe alongside a fibreglass boat, showcasing the county’s journey from its heritage to a future leading the blue economy revolution.
He urged Kenya Shipyards Limited to expedite the completion of the remaining three landing sites to create seamless waterways for trade and transport across Lake Victoria.
To support the growing sector, the governor highlighted the importance of building local human capital by strengthening institutions like Kisumu Marine School to train the next generation of captains, engineers and technicians.
Farah echoed this view, stressing that technological investment must be paired with community training, cooperative strengthening and environmental stewardship. “These boats will only reach their full potential if managed wisely and used responsibly,” he said.
The launch is expected to significantly boost fish production, food security, safety on the lake and incomes for fishing communities in Kisumu county.
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