Kwale county governor outlines major strides in blue economy and maritime affairs with her administration supporting locals during Madaraka day celebrations

By Alloys Musyoka

Kwale County Governor Fatuma Achani and County Commissioner Stephen Orinde led the 62nd Madaraka Day celebrations in the County at the Nzovuni High School grounds in Kinango, with the theme of this year’s day being “blue economy and Maritime Affairs”.

Kwale County has so far built 9 fish landing sites  upgraded with refrigerators and other modern equipments for storing fish and other marine products in the areas of Tsunza, Mwaepe, Waa, Tiwi and Vanga, and also provided fishing training to 1,200 women.

Addressing Wananchi at Ndzovuni Secondary School in Kinango Subcounty during Madaraka Day Celebration, Kwale County Governor Fatuma Achani said that the County has made significant strides in strengthening the fishing industry and blue economy on enhancing the livelihoods of fishing communities through purchase of 50 modern fishing boats that has increased catches from 2-3 kilograms to 1.5 tonnes on a daily basis.

“I want to commend the National Government for transforming the blue economy sector in kwale through Construction of shimoni port that is expected to stimulate the local economy. “Achani Said.

Construction of fish landing site facility in Mwaepe, Kinondo Ward, Msambweni Sub-County includes a fish processing plant, cold storage, gear mending shed, boatyard, and retail stalls.

The landing site is designed to reduce post-harvest losses, improve fish marketing, and provide safer working conditions for artisanal fishermen.

Kwale County is about 13% of the national mangrove area. These mangroves, particularly in areas like Munje, Mwache, and along Funzi Island, are important for biodiversity, local livelihoods, and climate change resilience.

Kwale County Commissioner’ Stephen orinde and kwale Deputy Governor Echoed Governor’s sentiments calling upon the residents to support government programs that will spur the local economy,

Kinango member of Parliament Gonzi Rai and Kwale Women Representative Fatuma masito highlighted the historical significance of Madaraka Day while emphasizing the importance of continuing the legacy of freedom fighters by working towards national development.

Leaders who accompanied Governor Achani include Kinango MP Gonzi Rai,CECs, Chief Officers,MCAs among other County Officials.