Kenya has taken a significant step forward in strengthening its maritime transport sector, with the government confirming that construction of a new public ferry at the Kisumu Shipyard is now halfway complete.
The project, being undertaken by Kenya Shipyards Limited, is part of a broader national push to unlock opportunities within the Blue Economy.
The 29-metre shallow-draft ferry will be the first public vessel operated by the Kenya Ports Authority on Lake Victoria, marking a major milestone in expanding water-based transport across the region.
Speaking on the progress, the Principal Secretary Department for Internal Security and National Administration, Dr Raymond Omollo emphasized the government’s commitment to leveraging maritime infrastructure to drive economic growth and regional connectivity.
“As part of the government’s ongoing strategy to harness the Blue Economy, Kenya Shipyards Limited has commenced construction of a 29-metre shallow-draft ferry at the Kisumu Shipyard. The vessel will be the first public ferry operated by Kenya Ports Authority on Lake Victoria,” he said.
“Most welding works have been finalised, structural joining and fitting completed, and the passenger area is ready. Ongoing works include electrical piping and painting of sub-structural components,” he added.
Boosting connectivity across Lake Victoria
Once complete, the ferry is expected to transform mobility across the lake by addressing long-standing transport challenges.
It will improve access to island communities such as Mfangano Island and strengthen links between key riparian counties including Busia County, Siaya County, Kisumu County and Migori County.
The development is expected to ease the movement of people and goods, opening up new economic opportunities for communities around the lake.
Strengthening local shipbuilding capacity
Beyond the ferry project, the Kisumu Shipyard continues to play a growing role in local manufacturing and maritime support.
The facility handles large vessel fabrication and also produces smaller fibre-reinforced plastic boats used for fishing, security patrols and transport operations across Lake Victoria.
This expansion is part of Kenya’s strategy to build local industrial capacity while reducing reliance on imported vessels.
Driving the blue economy agenda
The ferry project aligns with Kenya’s broader economic agenda of investing in sustainable industries, creating jobs and enhancing regional trade.
By expanding public maritime infrastructure, the government aims to unlock the untapped potential of Lake Victoria while improving the livelihoods of communities that depend on it.
With the project now at 50 percent completion, attention will shift to the final phases of construction as Kenya moves closer to deploying its first public ferry on the lake.
