Kwale County distributes fish processing equipment to boost blue economy

The Kwale County Government has stepped up its efforts to strengthen the blue economy by distributing modern fish processing and storage equipment to small-scale fish farmers in a bid to increase marine food production and improve household incomes.

The distributed equipment includes freezers, chillers, cooler boxes, energy-saving cooking jikos, frying pans, display boxes, solar-powered systems, lamps, and umbrellas. This initiative is aimed at reducing post-harvest losses, improving hygiene standards, increasing access to markets, and ultimately enhancing incomes for local fishermen.

The latest beneficiaries of the value addition initiative are members of the Diani Pastors’ Fellowship Self-Help Group, located in Ukunda Ward, Msambweni Sub-County.

Speaking during the distribution event, Kwale Governor Fatuma Achani said the initiative is part of a broader county strategy to scale up fish farming and promote economic empowerment. The program is being implemented through the Kenya Marine Fisheries Socio-Economic Development (KEMFSED) Project, a World Bank-funded initiative.

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“This distribution marks an important step in empowering coastal communities and strengthening the local economy,” said Governor Achani. “We urge all beneficiaries to make the most of the equipment to improve their livelihoods.”

The fisheries sector in Kwale continues to face several challenges, including overfishing, illegal fishing practices, limited funding, and inadequate data collection. The county, in collaboration with development partners, is working to overcome these barriers by investing in value chains, aquaculture, and improved storage facilities.

Under the KEMFSED project, the county is also offering grants to crop and fish farmers to help overcome financial constraints and boost local production. These efforts are aligned with Kwale’s broader goals of enhancing food and nutrition security and promoting socio-economic development in coastal communities.

The KEMFSED project, valued at Ksh10 billion, is implemented by the State Department for Blue Economy and Fisheries and runs from 2020 to 2025.

It targets five coastal counties — Mombasa, Kwale, Kilifi, Lamu, and Tana River — aiming to improve livelihoods through enhanced access to food security services, grants, and sustainable fishing practices.

By Obegi Malack

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