The boats are designed to expand fishing capacity beyond nearshore waters.The government has invited qualified community groups and cooperatives to apply for offshore fishing boats under a World Bank-supported programme.
The programme is aimed at promoting sustainable fishing and improving livelihoods in Kenya’s coastal region.
The government through the State Department for Blue Economy and Fisheries, said the initiative is being implemented under the Kenya Marine Fisheries and Socio-Economic Development (KEMFSED) Project.
The project seeks to improve fisheries management, promote sustainable fishing practices, and enhance the economic wellbeing of coastal communities.
As part of the effort, the government is providing offshore fishing boats to beneficiary entities to help them access deep-sea fish resources and create employment opportunities.
The boats are designed to expand fishing capacity beyond nearshore waters, where fish stocks have been declining due to overexploitation.
Each of the boats on offer is a multi-day fibre half-cabin vessel, measuring at least 13.5 metres in length.
The boats are equipped with a diesel engine of at least 150 horsepower, hydraulic winches with a six-tonne capacity and a fish hold capable of carrying up to 12 tonnes.
They are intended for use in Kenya’s Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ).
According to the notice, eligible applicants include Community Interest Groups (CIGs), Community-Based Organizations (CBOs), Cooperatives, and Beach Management Units (BMUs).
To qualify, groups must be affiliated with a BMU, have at least 30 members, and be registered with a Kenyan government institution.
They should also have operated for a minimum of three years and demonstrate the capacity to meet at least 70 per cent of fuel and maintenance costs.
Applicants must possess valid fishing licences and fisheries compliance documents, have a qualified crew to operate the vessels, and present a clear business plan.
They are also required to forfeit rudimentary boats in exchange for the modern ones and agree to abide by the Offshore Fishing Enterprise Guidelines.
Application forms are available at landing sites from BMU mentors or at the Mombasa County Fisheries Office in Liwatoni.
Fully filled forms must be delivered on or before the deadline set for October 14, 2025.
Interested groups can also seek clarification through the email [email protected] or phone number 0720485692 provided by KEMFSED.
The provision of offshore vessels marks a major milestone for Kenya’s blue economy agenda, which aims to harness ocean resources for sustainable development.
For many young people along the coast who face high unemployment rates, access to modern fishing boats could open new income streams in deep-sea fishing, fish processing, and related value chains.
The government hopes the initiative will not only reduce pressure on inshore fisheries but also build capacity among local fishers to compete in the lucrative offshore fishing sector — an area long dominated by foreign vessels.
