Kwale fisherfolk reap big from World Bank-backed marine project

However, limited access to modern fishing equipment, inadequate skills, and the growing impact of climate change have hampered their productivity and income.

That narrative is now changing, thanks to a major intervention by the Kwale County Government in partnership with the Kenya Marine Fisheries and Socio-Economic Development (KEMSFED) project, a World Bank-funded initiative aimed at uplifting coastal livelihoods through sustainable fishing.

As part of the project, the county has distributed 59 modern fishing boats, fish finders, GPS devices, and advanced fish value addition equipment. The investment has significantly improved fish yields, increasing daily catches from a mere 2–3 kilograms to over 1.5 tonnes.

Kwale Governor Fatuma Achani hailed the program as a transformative step for the region’s economy.

“This initiative is not just about increasing the quantity of fish caught; it’s about improving the livelihoods of fishermen and their families,” said Governor Achani. “It’s a step towards ensuring long-term prosperity for the people of Kwale.”

In addition to equipment distribution, the KEMSFED project has facilitated the construction of nine fully equipped fish landing sites across the county. These include mini-ports in Shimoni, Vanga, Gasi, Chale, and Tsunza in Kinango Sub-county, all outfitted with cold storage and modern handling facilities.

“These facilities allow our fishermen to store their catch for longer periods, reducing waste and boosting profitability,” said Roman Shera, County Executive Committee Member for Agriculture, Livestock, and Fisheries.

The program also invested in skills development, training 76 local fishermen as certified coxswains — including four women — to operate vessels and conduct deep-sea fishing expeditions.

“The training sessions have taught us more efficient fishing techniques, and we’re seeing better quality catches,” said Halima Hamisi, one of the newly trained female coxswains.

For fishermen like Mohammed Mbogo from Tsunza, the impact has been life-changing.

“Before, we relied on outdated equipment and could barely catch enough to feed our families,” he said. “Now, with the new boats and gear, we can venture further into the sea and catch more. It feels like a new beginning.”

The success of the KEMSFED project has brought renewed optimism to Kwale’s coastal communities, equipping them with the tools and knowledge to compete in today’s fast-evolving fishing industry.