The redevelopment of the Homa Bay Pier is entering its final stages, with the government confirming that major construction works under Phase II of the project have been completed and only finishing touches remain.
Interior Principal Secretary Raymond Omollo said the modernization of the facility is a key component of the government’s broader strategy to unlock the economic potential of the Blue Economy while improving transport infrastructure along Lake Victoria.
According to Omollo, the project is being undertaken by the Kenya Ports Authority (KPA) under the supervision of the Kenya Defence Forces (KDF), and is expected to transform Homa Bay into a major transport and trade hub within the lake region.
Modern Infrastructure Taking Shape
The upgraded pier features a modern ferry ramp designed to improve the movement of passengers, vehicles, and cargo across Lake Victoria. The facility also includes warehouses, terminal buildings, a ferry waiting bay, and a permanent administrative block.
One of the key engineering features of the project is a specially designed 30-degree ferry gradient that will facilitate efficient roll-on, roll-off ferry operations.
With most structural works complete, contractors are currently focusing on final activities such as electrical installations, painting, landscaping, and other finishing works ahead of commissioning.
Gateway to Regional Trade
Once operational, the expanded facility is expected to significantly improve connectivity between Homa Bay and key destinations around Lake Victoria, including Kisumu, Mbita, Busia, Siaya, Migori, and several lake islands such as Mfangano.
The upgraded infrastructure is also expected to strengthen cross-border trade by providing easier access to regional markets in Uganda and Tanzania through ports such as Entebbe, Jinja, and Mwanza.
Government officials believe the project will lower transport costs, facilitate the movement of goods, and create new opportunities for businesses operating within the lake region.
Boosting the Blue Economy
The Homa Bay Pier redevelopment forms part of the government’s wider investment strategy aimed at expanding economic activities linked to Kenya’s water resources.
By improving transport networks along Lake Victoria, authorities hope to stimulate growth in fishing, tourism, trade, and other sectors that depend on efficient maritime infrastructure.
The project is also expected to support job creation and attract private investment into Homa Bay and neighboring counties.
Part of Broader Development Agenda
The update on the Homa Bay Pier comes shortly after the government announced progress on several major infrastructure projects across the country.
Among them is the Migori County Aggregation and Industrial Park, which is also nearing completion. The facility, situated on a 100-acre site in Nyatike Constituency, is expected to serve as a major agro-processing and manufacturing hub for the region.
According to Omollo, the industrial park will support value addition for commodities such as fish, sugar, rice, maize, sweet potatoes, and horticultural produce while creating an estimated 30,000 jobs.
With both projects advancing toward completion, government officials say they will play a crucial role in accelerating regional economic growth, strengthening trade networks, and improving livelihoods across western Kenya.
