Kenya Marks 62 Years of Independence Highlighting Blue Economy’s Vast Potential

 

By Levin Kiprop

On the occasion of Kenya’s 62nd Madaraka Day celebrations, President William Ruto emphasized the critical role of the blue economy as a cornerstone of the country’s economic transformation under the bottom-up agenda.

This year, for the first time, the celebrations were held in Homa Bay County, a region President Ruto described as a symbol of Kenya’s untapped maritime potential and job creation opportunities.

“Many nations have revealed their marine resources for prosperity. It is time for Kenya to do the same,” the President declared, underscoring the nation’s ambitions to become a maritime powerhouse.

He further highlighted that Kenya is strategically investing in fisheries across lakes, dams, and oceans, positioning the blue economy as a vital frontier for national development.

One of the key government initiatives is the Cabonyo Fisheries and Aquaculture Services and Training Center in Nyando, which aims to restock Lake Victoria by producing seven million fingerlings annually. This facility will also house the Nile Perch Innovation Center, an Aquaculture Resource Center, and Kenya Fishing School — all designed to position Kenya as a regional leader in aquaculture.

“The initiatives underway will accelerate aquaculture productivity, improve livelihoods, and align with Kenya’s Vision 2030 goals,” said President Ruto. He also noted that fish farming will expand into arid and semi-arid areas to maximize resource use.

In the Mount Kenya highlands, the Kikanjo Drought Hatchery is being upgraded to tackle challenges like fingerling shortages and high costs, ensuring trout farming remains sustainable in cooler climates.

To boost the country’s deep-sea fishing capacity, the government has completed seven modern landing sites along the Indian Ocean coast and three on Lake Victoria’s shores. Additional landing sites are under construction in the coastal and Nyanza regions, with investments totaling approximately KSh 2.5 billion. Plans are also underway to build modern fish markets in coastal counties and Turkana.

“These investments aim to reduce post-harvest fish losses—currently estimated at 30% to 40%—and create economic opportunities for women and youth,” the President said.

Currently, the blue economy contributes KSh 36 billion to Kenya’s economy, accounting for 0.6% of the nation’s GDP. With increased focus and investment, this sector holds the promise of job creation, food security, revenue generation, and rural development.

June 02, 2025