President William Ruto has presided over the groundbreaking ceremony for the Usenge Pier in Bondo Constituency, Siaya County, marking a major step in the government’s plan to expand maritime infrastructure and strengthen the blue economy along Lake Victoria.
The project, valued at Sh1 billion, is part of a broader Sh9.5 billion investment aimed at creating jobs and improving livelihoods for communities living around the lake.
Speaking during the event, President Ruto said the initiative will unlock new opportunities in fishing, transport, and regional trade.
“We are investing KSh9.5 billion to strengthen blue economy activities along Lake Victoria, consequently creating jobs and improving livelihoods for residents of the lake region,” Ruto said.
The Usenge Pier project will be implemented by Kenya Shipyards Limited and is expected to enhance water transport connectivity between Kisumu and Homa Bay counties.
“This is an important step in expanding maritime infrastructure and unlocking new opportunities in fishing, transport, and regional trade,” the President noted.
Ruto highlighted ongoing and upcoming projects across the lake region, including the completion of a similar pier in Homa Bay County and the construction of another at Muhuru Bay in Migori County.
“We have completed the pier in Homa Bay and are building another at Muhuru Bay in Migori. Additionally, 10 fish landing sites are set for construction along the lake from Busia to Migori,” he said.
To further support the fishing sector, the President announced plans to establish a fishermen rescue centre in Siaya at a cost of Sh250 million, alongside the procurement of rescue boats worth Sh70 million.
“We will also invest another Sh70 million in fish cages to support safety, boost aquaculture, and increase productivity,” Ruto added.
The developments are part of the government’s broader strategy to harness the economic potential of Lake Victoria while promoting sustainable use of its resources.
