The contemporary fish market located in Koginga, Homa Bay County has been finalized and is now available for use.
On Friday, May 30, President William Ruto will officially hand over the market, valued at KSh345 million, to fish traders, having completed it ahead of the anticipated schedule..
This state-of-the-art facility is designed to provide a clean, organized, and respectful environment for fish handling and trading, accommodating over 2000 fishmongers from the county and surrounding areas.
Equipped with cold storage facilities, the market aims to minimize spoilage and enhance value addition, thus increasing the income of traders and contributing to both county and national revenue.
In her remarks regarding this achievement, Ms. Lilian Kieni, Director of Urban Development at the State Department for Housing and Urban Development, stated, “This new fish market includes a dedicated fish processing area that will significantly contribute to the utilization of maritime resources for economic empowerment. The market will provide fish traders, who previously operated in makeshift shacks without proper storage for their perishable goods, with a respectable venue to conduct their business.
The modern market will include:
- Hygienic trading areas.
- Retail stalls and a food court.
- Fish processing and storage facilities (cold and dry rooms).
- Areas for gutting and scaling.
- A mooring deck and fish landing shed for fishermen.
- Storage spaces for processed fish.
- Washrooms, kitchens, and sanitation systems.
- A high-capacity water tower and underground water tank to guarantee a consistent water supply.
- Sufficient lighting for the market and its vicinity.
- An ICT hub to facilitate digital operations and financial recordkeeping.
- Facilities for mothers and children, along with ramps accessible to persons with disabilities.
This initiative is part of the government’s broader strategy to formalize informal trade and foster inclusive economic growth by providing dignified workspaces throughout the nation.