DP decries the slow construction of the Aquaculture and Fisheries centre

Deputy President Prof. Kithure Kindiki has expressed concerns over the delay of Sh1.3 billion Kabonyo Kanyagwal Aquaculture and Fisheries Centre in Nyando sub-county, Kisumu County, saying it might not meet its set timelines.

The DP said the multi-billion-shilling initiative, which is currently 15% complete should now be jumpstarted, calling on the contractors on site to fast-track the ongoing construction to meet the set timelines.

Prof Kindiki claimed the project is one of the Kenya Kwanza government’s flagship projects geared towards revitalizing Kenya’s blue economy, enhancing fisheries, and improving the livelihoods of communities around Lake Victoria.

“The Kabonyo Aquaculture Project is central to our strategy for boosting the blue economy and uplifting the fisheries sector,” said Kindiki, who was accompanied by senior national government officials during the inspection.

The center which is expected to produce 28 million fingerlings annually for aquaculture, cage culture, and restocking Lake Victoria once it is completed, will also supply freshwater fish feed to both small and large-scale farmers at affordable prices.

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DP Kindiki said that the project will be a game-changer for neighboring counties dotting the shores of Lake Victoria, including Kisumu, Siaya, Homabay, Migori, and Busia.

“It will significantly boost fish production and incomes for the local fisherfolk,” the Second-In-Command added.

Accompanied by senior government officials, DP Kindiki revealed that the President William Ruto-led administration plans to construct modern fish landing sites equipped with cold rooms to augment the sector.

“This project, alongside upcoming fish landing infrastructure, will modernize the fisheries industry, empower millions involved in the value chain, and revitalize the economies of Lake Victoria counties,” Kindiki concluded.

Earlier Kithure assured Kenyans that no part of the country will be sidelined based on their political affiliations saying that the government is committed to serving all parts of the country equally.

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The deputy president said the constitution stipulates that all Kenyans are served equally irrespective of political affiliation since all people pay taxes.

Kithure at the same time pledged on the government’s commitment towards fast-tracking key development projects in the Nyanza region.

He said the projects, among them the ring road along Lake Victoria, extension of the Standard Gauge Railway from Naivasha to Kisumu, Koru-Soin dam and last mile power connectivity, were crucial to unlocking development in the area.

“The projects, which have been long-awaited, are expected to open up the region to new economic opportunities and enhance regional connectivity. The region is set to benefit greatly from the increased investments and improved connectivity, which would also support local businesses and create job opportunities,” he said.

The DP added that the government has done a lot of work to stabilize the economy expressing optimism that with the steady growth being experiences in the country the much needed resources for development shall be realized.

He confirmed that the government has a stable macroeconomic environment adding that the cost of food, fuel and essential commodities has gone greatly reduced.

By Fredrick Odiero

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