President Ruto to open Sh345 million state-of-the-art fish market in Homa Bay

Homa Bay County is poised for a significant economic boost with the completion of the Sh345 million modern fish market in Koginga.

The state-of-the-art facility is now ready for occupation, marking a key milestone for the region. President William Ruto is scheduled to officially hand over the market to fish traders on Friday, May 30, 2025, afternoon. The project has been completed ahead of schedule.

The new market is designed to offer a clean, organised, and dignified space for fish handling and trading.It is expected to benefit more than 2,000 fishmongers in the county and its environs. A crucial feature of the market is its cold room storage facilities.

These are intended to reduce spoilage and support value addition, ultimately increasing traders’ income and boosting both county and national revenue.

Ms. Lilian Kieni, Director of Urban Development at the State Department for Housing and Urban Development, commented on this achievement.

She stated, “This new fish market has a dedicated fish processing area that will play a key role in harnessing maritime resources for economic empowerment".The market will provide a much-needed decent place for business for fish traders who previously operated in shacks and lacked proper storage for their perishable goods.

Kieni further assured traders, particularly "mama samaki" and other small traders, stating, “We want to assure all traders, especially mama samaki, and other small traders who we are working to ensure they have access to decent and well-serviced trading areas for their day-to-day activities".

The modern market boasts a range of features aimed at improving trading conditions. These include hygienic trading spaces, retail stalls, and a food court. It also has dedicated fish processing and storage facilities, encompassing both cold and dry rooms.

For fishermen, there are gutting and scaling areas, a mooring deck, and a fish landing shed. The market also includes stores for processed fish, washrooms, kitchens, and comprehensive sanitation systems.

To ensure continuous operations, a high-level water tower and an underground water tank will provide a reliable water supply.

Adequate lighting is installed for both the market and surrounding areas, and an ICT hub is in place to support digital operations and financial recordkeeping

Additionally, the market features mother-and-child facilities and PWD-friendly access ramps.

This initiative is part of the government’s wider plan to formalise informal trade and promote inclusive economic growth by providing dignified workspaces across the country