By Yoga David
Governor Nyong’o and Maj. Gen Said Farah during the launch of Nanga beach landing site /photo by Calvin Randy
Kisumu County has today marked a major milestone in the revitalization of its Blue Economy today as Governor Prof. Peter Anyang’ Nyong’o officially commissioned five modern artisanal fibreglass fishing boats, a patrol vessel, and upgraded landing sites at Kichinjio and Nanga beaches.
Speaking during the commissioning ceremony at Kichinjio Beach, Governor Nyong’o described the event as “a watershed moment” that redefines the fishing economy along Lake Victoria.
He reiterated the Kisumu county’s commitment to safer, more sustainable, and profitable fishing operations.
“Today, we begin a paradigm shift. These new fibreglass boats are the future. They are engineered for stability and durability, directly addressing the tragic loss of life on the lake. But they are also powerful economic tools.” Said the Governor.
The new fleet comprises five fishing boats and one patrol vessel each with a carrying capacity of 1,500 kilograms.
The patrol boat is expected to strengthen enforcement of fishing regulations and improve emergency response capacity on the lake.
The project was delivered in collaboration with Kenya Shipyards Limited (KSL) through a government-to-government procurement model, facilitated by the Kisumu Lakefront Development Corporation led by their CEO Paul Waweru.
Governor Nyong’o commended KSL’s professionalism and innovation, describing the initiative as “Kenyan expertise building Kenyan capacity.”
He directed the Directorate of Fisheries to showcase both a traditional wooden canoe and a fibreglass boat at the upcoming Devolution Conference in Homa Bay to reflect Kisumu’s transformation in boat building process.
Kenya Shipyards Limited Managing Director, Major General Said Farah, praised the partnership and affirmed the shipyard’s role in transforming lake economies through durable and low-maintenance marine technology.
“These boats are a game-changer. With improved safety and lower maintenance, they empower fishermen to focus on feeding communities and building local economies,” said Maj. Gen. Farah.
Deputy Governor Dr. Mathew Owili applauded the timely delivery of the project, calling for collective responsibility in protecting Lake Victoria’s ecosystem.
“This project shows what commitment can achieve. But we must protect this lake, it is our livelihood and our legacy.” Dr Owili said.
Governor Nyong’o urged financial institutions to create inclusive loan models to help more fisherfolk transition to modern boats.
He also appealed to the national government to zero-rate taxes on fibreglass boat-building materials and called for greater investment in institutions like the Kisumu Marine School to build local technical capacity.
He emphasized that these developments represent more than infrastructure, they are tools for dignity, safety, and prosperity.
Also present at the ceremony were County Commissioner Benson Leparmorijo, County CECMs including Salmon Orimba, Farida Salim, George Okong’o, Kenneth Onyango, and Jerome Ochieng, along with Beach Management Unit (BMU) members and officials from both the county and Kenya Shipyards Limited.
