Nyandiwa Beach Upgrade Set to Boost Fishing and Trade in Homa Bay – Raymond Omollo

The government is advancing efforts to strengthen Kenya’s Blue Economy through the modernisation of Nyandiwa Beach fish landing site in Suba South, Homa Bay County, in a move expected to improve fishing activities, create economic opportunities and support communities around Lake Victoria.

According to Raymond Omollo, the investment is part of the government’s wider commitment to harnessing the country’s aquatic resources under the Bottom-Up Economic Transformation Agenda (BETA). The Lake Victoria basin remains an important source of livelihoods, trade and investment, making improvements in fishing infrastructure essential to local economic development.

The Nyandiwa Beach project is being implemented under the Aquaculture Business Development Programme (ABDP). It is designed to transform traditional fishing operations by introducing modern facilities that promote safer working conditions, proper fish handling and increased value addition.

Among the key facilities being incorporated are solar-powered ice-making equipment, cold storage facilities, hygienic fish-processing bandas and electronic weighing scales. These improvements are expected to help fishermen preserve their catches for longer, maintain better quality standards and reduce losses experienced before fish reaches consumers.

The project also includes a modern jetty, water treatment systems and improved access roads. These developments will make it easier to transport fish from the landing site to major markets, potentially strengthening trade and improving the earnings of people involved in the fisheries value chain.

Beyond infrastructure, the investment is expected to benefit fishing communities and Beach Management Units (BMUs) by creating opportunities for increased economic activity along the Lake Victoria shoreline.

Safety has also been identified as an important part of the modernisation programme. Plans to establish a lake search-and-rescue centre and provide high-capacity safety boats are intended to improve emergency response and protect fishermen working on the lake.

Omollo further highlighted the importance of maritime security in protecting fishing activities and safeguarding the lake’s economic potential. The State Department for Internal Security and National Administration is working with relevant agencies and local administrative structures to strengthen lakeshore security and support lawful fishing operations.

What are your views on the government’s investment in Nyandiwa Beach and its potential to transform fishing businesses in Homa Bay County? Share your remarks and opinions in the comment section.