Construction of Kwale's Sh2.6 billion Shimoni Port is complete

A view of Shimoni Port in South Coast. March 3,2025 [Omondi Onyango,Standard]

It is all systems go as Kenya’s first fishing port awaits handover and commissioning.

Kenya Ports Authority (KPA) said that construction of the  Shimoni Fish Port in Kwale is complete, marking a milestone in the efforts to harness the potential of the Blue Economy. 

In a statement, KPA, the country's ports operator, said its senior managers inspected the facility early this week ahead of its official handover.

The port, dedicated exclusively to fish production, processing, and value-added activities, will reshape the local economy, expanding export opportunities regionally and domestically. 

Key infrastructure under the project includes a jetty measuring 75 metres by 30 metres and a 135-metre causeway capable of berthing two fishing vessels simultaneously.

Additional critical facilities at the port include a dedicated fish processing plant, cold storage units, reefer stations, a power substation, an ice-making plant, a bio-digester, and a wastewater management system. 

‘’These enhancements will streamline the supply chain, allowing for efficient processing and storage of up to 50,000 metric tonnes of fish annually, the equivalent of around 1,000 lorry loads of fish poised for the local and international markets,” KPA added.

The authority went on to further state that the Shimoni Fish Port project is a testament to the government’s dedication to ensuring that coastal communities benefit directly from the abundant marine resources.

“The port will provide fishermen with better access to markets, improved handling facilities and increased cold chain capacity, reducing waste and maximising profits for local fishers. For Shimoni itself, a town rich in history and traditionally dependent on small-scale fishing, the project offers hope for long-term economic stability,’’ added KPA.

KPA further stressed that the Shimoni Fish Port will transform the region’s fishing industry by improving efficiency, reducing post-harvest losses, and creating new economic opportunities.