KWALE — Cabinet Secretary for Mining, Blue Economy, and Maritime Affairs, Salim Mvurya, announced a comprehensive plan to boost Kwale County's economy through strategic infrastructure and development projects as part of the Fourth Medium Term Plan (MTP IV) 2023-2027. This initiative aligns with the Bottom-Up Economic Transformation Agenda and aims to leverage the county's coastal resources and geographical position.
According to Kenya News Agency, who spoke during a dissemination forum at the Kenya School of Government Matuga campus, Kwale is set to see the implementation of several high-impact projects. These include increasing power generation and supply on Wasini Island, constructing fish landing sites, a textile ginnery, integrated fish resource development facilities, and establishing a maritime college. These efforts are geared toward making Kwale a regional maritime hub and enhancing its economic status significantly.
The CS highlighted that the ongoing construction of a Sh1.5 billion maritime college in Chitsakamatsa will serve not only Kenya but the entire East African region. The college is expected to elevate Kenya's maritime training capacity to a global level. Additionally, a survival and training centre at the Bandari Maritime Academy will be developed to enhance maritime safety and seafarer skills.
Mvurya also discussed the progress of the Dongu Kundu Special Economic Zone, stating that compensation for affected persons is nearing completion, which will clear the path for the project on 3,000 acres of land. This initiative is expected to attract significant investment and generate substantial economic activity in the area.
Furthermore, the CS announced the construction of a Sh838 million mariculture center in Shimoni and a major electricity project under the Sh1.92 billion last-mile connectivity program, which will connect 27,524 households in Kwale County to the power grid. The Shimoni Fish Project, another key development, is 61 percent complete and plans are in place to upgrade the port to commercial status.
Governor Fatuma Achani also spoke at the event, noting the omission of the Diani Resort City project from the MTP IV priorities and seeking assurance of its inclusion. She praised the government's engagement with county governments in disseminating the MTP IV and highlighted local contributions such as land allocation for a KEMRI laboratory and support for the Affordable Housing Programme.
Transport PS Mohamed Daghar and local leaders, including Deputy Governor Josephat Kombo and Women Representative Fatuma Masito, echoed the sentiment of transformation and community involvement in realizing these ambitious projects. Residents were encouraged to register for the Social Health Insurance Fund to benefit from comprehensive healthcare services, which are part of the county's and national government's broader effort to improve the livelihoods in Kwale.