Gov’t has allocated Ksh.900M for construction of fish landing sites in Lake Victoria - President Ruto

President William Ruto says his government has set aside Ksh.900 million for the construction of fish landing sites on beaches along the lake region.

Speaking at Sena Island in Homa Bay County when he commissioned the construction of the 54km Mfangano Ring Road on day two of his Luo Nyanza development tour, the Head of State said the land sites will be completed within a period of one year to boost aquaculture along the lake region.

President Ruto revealed that the government will set up two landing sites in Homa Bay County, one in Wakula and another in Nyandiwa, both in Suba region, with cold storage and processing to ensure fishermen get good market for their fish.

He noted that other landing sites will be at Sori and Nyatike in Migori County, Wich Lum in Siaya County, as well as in Ogal and Asat.

“For the landing sites, we intend to have a cold room for processing. We want to ensure that the fish the fishermen bring from all corners do not spoil. We will have adequate equipment to ensure there's processing and a cold room where they can store the fish at the right temperature,” he stated.

“We want to ensure that the whole of Lake Victoria has facilities that will assist the fishermen. We want to have the necessary infrastructure to ensure that fishing yields produce and food, supporting the economy of the people in this region.”

On the same visit, the Head of State reiterated that his administration was aware of the challenges the people are facing in water transport.

“I have been informed that the ferry operating here is a private ferry… I have agreed that we will purchase a government ferry that will connect the mainland to Mfangano Island before the end of next year to address transportation problems,” he said.

Ruto said the government ferry services will enhance transportation of both residents and goods as it improves the Blue Economy in Lake Victoria.    

“Later, when I come back here after next year, I will commence the official operation of the ferry, so that you do not face challenges and the prices of goods do not rise due to transportation via a private ferry,” the President added.