Government initiates privatisation of Shimoni fish port

Kenya has initiated the privatisation of the newly completed Shimoni Fish Port in Kwale County as part of efforts to unlock the country’s blue economy potential and attract private investment.

The KSh2.7 billion facility, completed in June 2025, is being offered under a public-private partnership structured as a landlord model.

Under this framework, Kenya Ports Authority will retain ownership of the land and key infrastructure while a private investor will take over daily operations of the port.

Officials said the decision follows a feasibility study conducted in 2018 that recommended development and management of the port through private sector participation.

Construction of the Shimoni Fish Port began in October 2022 and was completed in June 2025, positioning it as a key project under Kenya Vision 2030.

Data from Kenya Fisheries Service shows that the country recorded 168,424 tonnes of fish production valued at KSh39.6 billion in 2024, representing a 4.4% increase from 2023.

The Shimoni facility is expected to handle up to 24,000 tonnes of fish annually, making it the largest among small seaports along the Kenyan coast.

Despite the expected economic benefits, the project has sparked concern among coastal residents over access to public beaches.

Officials maintain that the PPP arrangement does not transfer land ownership to private investors.