Project Handover Marks Start of Major Blue Economy Investment
Kisumu County has officially handed over the Ogal and Asat Beach fish landing sites to contractors, signaling the start of a transformative Ksh 298 million infrastructure upgrade. The handover ceremony enables contractors to mobilize resources and begin work on projects designed to commercialize fishing activities and enhance livelihoods for local fisherfolk.
Major Investment in Fisheries Infrastructure
The upgrades are part of the Aquaculture Business Development Program (ABDP), funded by the Government of Kenya and the International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD). Each landing site will receive Ksh 149 million in improvements, representing one of the most significant investments in the region’s blue economy sector.
State-of-the-Art Facilities Planned
According to Eng. Oduma John, the revitalized landing bays will feature comprehensive modern facilities including:
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A fish processing plant and cold storage rooms
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Dedicated drying areas for omena and ochonga
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Office spaces and hotel facilities
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Modern ablution blocks
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Security fencing, surveillance cameras, and floodlights
Leadership Commitment and Community Call
The handover ceremony was presided over by County Commissioner Mr. Benson Leparmorijo, alongside CECM for Agriculture, Livestock, Fisheries, and Blue Economy Hon. Ken Onyango, and Mr. Samson Kidera, Regional Coordinator for the State Department of Blue Economy and Fisheries.
County Commissioner Leparmorijo expressed gratitude to President Ruto for implementing this long-awaited project and urged local communities to support the contractors to ensure timely completion. He also issued a strong warning against lake pollution and illegal drug transportation on the lake, while encouraging coordination with Coastguards for water safety.
Hon. Ken Onyango acknowledged the President’s intervention in approving the project, which was not originally part of the ABDP plan. He called upon fisherfolk to commercialize their catches and increase production for potential export markets, while emphasizing the importance of legal fishing practices.
Community Involvement and Quality Assurance
Representing CS Hassan Joho, Mr. Samson Kidera assured the community of opportunities in non-skilled labor positions and called for maximum cooperation to nurture the project while protecting the environment.
Dr. Isaac Wamalwa, Deputy Program Coordinator, confirmed that their supervision team will ensure all work meets quality standards and is completed within the stipulated timeframe.
Traveling to Ogal or Asat Beach?
As these important fishing sites undergo transformation, Afrivibe Rentals remains your reliable transport partner for travel throughout Kisumu County and to lakeside destinations.
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