Mining, Blue Economy and Maritime Affairs Cabinet Secretary Hassan Ali Joho Saturday launched a sea rescue boat that will enhance ocean surveillance and ensure timely responses to maritime emergencies.
Speaking during the launch, CS Joho noted that the boat has been procured through the Kenya Maritime Authority, which will oversee its management together with three other patrol boats from the Fisheries Department.
He noted that the National government is also in the process of developing big vessels for deep sea fishing for fishermen.
“We are committed to improving maritime safety and supporting the livelihoods of our coastal communities,” said CS Joho. “The National Government is also in the process of developing large vessels for deep-sea fishing to benefit local fishermen.”
Joho revealed that the National Government has invested over Ksh 10 billion in Blue Economy projects across the Coast region over the past two years. Of this, Kilifi County alone has received projects worth more than Ksh 2 billion, according to Joho and his Principal Secretary Betty Njagi.
In addition to the patrol boat, Joho inspected the ongoing construction of a modern fish market in Malindi town, which he said will promote value addition and improve access to regional and international markets for fish and fish products.
Enhancing Rescue Capacity for Fishermen
Speaking during the launch of the high-powered search and rescue boats, Joho announced that the government will ensure all Beach Management Units (BMUs) along the Coast are equipped with rescue boats to support emergency operations.
Malindi MP Amina Mnyazi said she had requested for the boats after a series of accidents of fishermen in the Ocean.
In the last one month two fishermen in Watamu died after their boat capsized in the Indian Ocean.
Last week three more fishermen went missing and one of the body was found in Kipini while two are still missing to-date.
Kilifi Governor Gideon Mung’aro also brought one rescue boat and announced that they have five other rescue boats which will be dispatched too in the different areas.
