Joho cracks whip on contractor over delays in Sh1.4 billion mariculture project

Blue Economy and Maritime Affairs CS Hassan Joho has issued a stern warning to the contractor in charge of the delayed National Mariculture Resource and Training project in Shimoni, Kwale county.

The CS gave the contractor three months to complete the work.

While commissioning the adjacent National Marine Hatchery on Wednesday, Joho expressed frustration over the slow progress of the Sh1.4 billion project, which is only 40 per cent complete despite having a set completion date of early next month.

“The agreement was clear; this project should have been ready next month. I don't know what magic you will do, but I am giving you three months to finish it,” he said.

He said further delays would not be tolerated, especially considering the project's importance to the coastal economy and the livelihoods of local fisherfolk and traders. 

He emphasised the government had cleared all payments and approvals and would no longer tolerate laxity or substandard work in projects meant to transform coastal livelihoods.

“We will not entertain nonsense where contractors play around with public money and deliver shoddy work. Every document has been processed and payments made. Now it’s time to deliver,” he said.

The CS said the Namaret facility is central to Kenya’s blue economy push and vital to improving fish production, local income and job creation.

He warned any further delays risk undermining public confidence and the government's development agenda.

Joho also threatened to blacklist contractors who fail to meet timelines, saying the government is keen on engaging only reliable service providers.

“We will make it our business to ensure that if contractors misbehave, they never do any business with this government again,” he said.

Joho said his ministry, in partnership with the Kwale government, will keep a close eye on the Namaret project to ensure successful delivery within the extended timeline.

Kwale Governor Fatuma Achani supported Joho’s remarks, urging the contractor to treat the project with the urgency and seriousness it deserves.

“The people of Kwale are banking on this project to transform their lives. The contractor should not play with the dreams of our people,” she said.

The Namaret project is a flagship initiative under the Blue Economy sector.

Once completed, it is expected to boost marine resource management, improve fish landing infrastructure and create economic opportunities for coastal communities.

Instant analysis

The Namaret project is a cornerstone of Kenya’s blue economy strategy, aimed at boosting mariculture, creating jobs and improving food security for coastal communities. Delays in such a high-stakes initiative risk stalling economic progress, frustrating local communities and wasting taxpayer money.