The government has launched the construction of a new public ferry at the Kisumu Shipyard, Principal Secretary for Internal Security and National Administration Raymond Omollo has announced.
In a statement, the PS said Kenya Shipyards Limited has commenced construction of a 29-metre shallow-draft ferry, which will become the first public ferry operated by the Kenya Ports Authority on Lake Victoria.
“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,” said Omollo.
He noted that the project is already at an advanced stage, with half of the work completed.
“The project is now at 50 percent completion, with most welding works finalised, structural joining and fitting completed and the passenger area ready,” he said.
According to the PS, ongoing works include electrical piping and painting of sub-structural components as the vessel moves closer to completion.
“The ferry will bridge a critical gap in public maritime transport, improving connectivity to island-rich areas such as Homa Bay County, including Mfangano Island, while linking the riparian counties of Busia, Siaya, Kisumu and Migori,” he added.
Omollo emphasized that the vessel is expected to significantly enhance transport and economic activity across the Lake Victoria region by improving access between mainland and island communities.
Beyond the ferry project, the PS highlighted the broader role of the Kisumu Shipyard in supporting maritime activities on the lake.
“In addition to large vessel fabrication, the shipyard also manufactures smaller fibre-reinforced plastic (FRP) boats, commonly used for fishing, patrol and transport operations across Lake Victoria,” he said.
The development forms part of the government’s wider plan to strengthen Kenya’s Blue Economy by expanding maritime infrastructure, boosting transport connectivity and supporting livelihoods in lake-region counties.
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