State unveils Sh4.6 billion initiative to enhance safety on Lake Victoria

SITNA OMAR- KNA

The National Government has stepped-up efforts to enhance safety, transport, and economic opportunities along Lake Victoria through a Sh4.6 billion major infrastructure and training programme spearheaded by the Kenya Maritime Authority (KMA).

The initiative, dubbed Lake Victoria Maritime Communication and Transport project, aims at improving safety, strengthening regulation, and expanding economic opportunities across the Nyanza region.

Speaking at Tom Mboya University in Homa Bay town, KMA Nyanza Regional Director, Henry Mosaru, said the initiative targets key challenges affecting transport and livelihoods in Lake Victoria, particularly in areas with high vessel activity.

“We are here to ensure that this project is fully implemented within the Nyanza region. Homa Bay carries the largest share of vessels on the lake, and this demands a strong safety framework to protect those using these waters,” Mosaru said.

The project focuses on enforcing a proactive safety regime, including mandatory training for vessel operators and certification of boats, to meet national laws and international standards.

Mosaru confirmed that the government is setting-up maritime sub-centres in Busia, Siaya, Homa Bay, and Migori, while a central Search and Rescue Coordination Centre in Kisumu is nearing completion. 

The Kisumu hub will oversee emergency response operations across the lake. Deputy Director of Maritime Safety at the Kenya Maritime Authority (KMA), Oliver Maina, said the Sh4.6 billion investment, will address root causes of persistent problems in the lake.

+“Lake Victoria is facing myriad challenges that include, substandard vessels, untrained personnel, marine pollution, and declining fish stocks,” Maina said, adding, “We are taking a comprehensive approach to improve safety and sustainability.”

As part of the reforms, KMA services will be decentralized, allowing fishermen to access vessel inspection and certification services within their counties instead of traveling to Mombasa.

The Authority will also regulate boat construction by registering and certifying boat builders, to eliminate unsafe vessels.

To improve safety, the government is rolling-out a program to make life jackets more affordable.

Currently costing between Sh2,000 and Sh3,000, the jackets remain out of reach for many fishermen.

Through a youth empowerment initiative, about 400 youths will be trained in tailoring and specialized life jacket production, with the aim of reducing prices to around Sh1,500.