Mombasa: To revitalize the blue economy, the county government of Mombasa is making deliberate investments in the sector to harness its economic potential for poverty eradication and livelihood improvement. The blue economy, an economic game changer for the port city of Mombasa and the nation at large, remains largely untapped despite its potential to drive sustainable development, especially in light of the youth bulge. Mombasa Governor Abdulswamad Nassir highlighted the sector’s immense potential to expand commerce and significantly contribute to the economic growth of Mombasa.
According to Kenya News Agency, the county government has allocated Sh100 million to the Department of Blue Economy to empower over 300 Beach Management Units (BMUs) through the acquisition of modern fishing equipment. The governor praised the cooperation with the national government, which has facilitated the construction of the KSh175 million Kidongo Fish Landing Site in Bamburi, Kisauni Constituency, now nearing completion. Governor Nassir emphasized that this progress would not have been possible without a collaborative relationship with the national government.
The BMUs have been trained and equipped with 33 modern fishing boats to enhance their efficiency in fishing and increase their fish catches. The County Executive Committee Member (CECM) for Blue Economy, Agriculture and Livestock, Kibibi Khamis, stated that the new boats have significantly increased the fish catches, with fishermen now returning with approximately two tonnes of fish, up from the previous five to ten kilograms. Additionally, refrigerators have been provided to store the catch and minimize losses.
To access credit facilities from financial institutions, the Department of Blue Economy has transformed the BMUs into cooperatives. Fishermen have noted that the boats have enabled them to venture into the high seas, with coxswain training further enhancing their skills. Mercy Mghanga, chairlady of Coastal Women in Fisheries, mentioned that funding for a reefer container capable of storing 30 tonnes of fish was secured to minimize post-harvest losses. This storage solution ensures fish reserves are available when fishermen cannot venture out to sea due to high tides.
In a move to complement income from fishing, the County Chief Officer for Blue Economy, Agriculture and Livestock, Roselyn Randu, stated that most farmers have embraced poultry farming, as it offers income within six months. Support has been provided to farmers with hatcheries and layers to facilitate this initiative, ensuring the growth of chicks for additional income. Furthermore, the department is planning to train livestock farmers in embryo transfer to ensure access to best practices at a low rate.