By Angela Kibara
The Kisumu County government today commissioned a new fleet of five modern fibreglass fishing boats and a patrol vessel, marking a significant step forward for the region’s blue economy.
The vessels, along with upgraded landing sites at Nanga and Kichinjio, are a key initiative to improve safety and economic opportunities for fishing communities on Lake Victoria.
In a social media post, Governor Anyang’ Nyong’o highlighted that the project is a declaration of progress and resilience for the county’s lakefront communities.
“This is a bold declaration of progress, resilience, and our unwavering commitment to the safety and prosperity of our lakefront communities,” he said.
The Governor noted that for years, fishermen have lost their lives in storms because their wooden boats “were no match for the fury of Lake Victoria’s storms.”
He stated that the new fibreglass vessels will help “turn that tide,” as they are built for safety and durability. Nyong’o noted that with a carrying capacity of 1,500 kilograms per trip, the boats will allow fisherfolk to venture deeper and return with more profitable catches, which is expected to improve livelihoods and food security.
The Governor further detailed that the initiative is the result of a strategic partnership between the Kisumu Lakefront Development Corporation and the Kenya Shipyards Limited (KSL).
He emphasized that the vessels were acquired through a transparent, efficient, and future-focused government-to-government procurement model.
Nyong’o also used the post to urge the national government to “zero rate taxes on fibreglass boat building materials.”
He explained that such a policy would significantly reduce production costs and fast-track the nationwide transition to safer vessels.
The event was attended by several officials, including KSL Managing Director Major General Said Farah, Deputy Governor Dr. Mathew Ochieng’ Owili, and a number of County Executive Members.