Govt launches 500km Lake Victoria road, nine fish landing sites plan

Kisumu, Kenya – The Kenyan government plans to bolster security measures and improve infrastructure on Lake Victoria by December, according to Principal Secretary for Internal Security and National Administration Raymond Omollo. This initiative aims to tackle insecurity affecting fishing communities and boost the blue economy. Omollo revealed that the government will enlist additional security personnel and patrol boats, working in coordination with the Border Patrol Unit and the Kenya Coast Guard Service.

These security measures will focus on areas along the borders of Uganda and Tanzania, with the goal of protecting fishermen and enhancing safety in Kenyan waters.

The government also plans to invest in modern fishing infrastructure, including nine fish landing sites around Lake Victoria. These facilities will feature cold storage rooms, hygienic handling areas, and improved trading infrastructure. Work has already begun on the Homa Bay facility, with construction underway at Usenge in Siaya County and others planned at Mbita, Kendu Bay, Sena on Mfangano Island, and Muhuru Bay Pier in Migori County.

A public ferry in Kisumu is also nearing completion, which will improve passenger transport and connect communities around the lake.

Omollo emphasized the government's commitment to addressing persistent security challenges, such as those around Migingo Island. He challenged beach management unit officials to strengthen their Savings and Credit Cooperative Organisations (SACCOs) through increased membership, transparent financial management, and sound governance to ensure fishermen can access financing and expand their businesses.

Furthermore, the government is constructing over 600 markets nationwide, equipped with modern facilities such as electricity, water, and cold storage, to improve trading conditions and reduce exploitation by middlemen. The government also plans to construct a 500-kilometre Lake Victoria Ring Road, linking Migori to Busia, which will strengthen economic activity in lake bordering counties.