Construction work for the long-awaited Sh1.2 billion regional centre for Marine Transport and Port Logistics in Chitsakamatsa, Matuga, Kwale County is finally taking shape.

The first phase of the flagship institution, which involves putting up and equipping tuition blocks, is 82 per cent complete, bringing renewed hope to the region’s maritime education ambitions.

The project is being implemented under the East Africa Skills for Transformation and Regional Integration Project (EASTRIP), funded by the World Bank and spearheaded by the national government. Its construction was supposed to start in late 2019. However, its progress had stalled due to budget constraints and political interference.

During an inspection visit to the site, Deputy President Kithure Kindiki assured residents of the government’s renewed commitment to complete the institution.

“This is a critical investment for the blue economy and skills development. We are determined to ensure it is completed without further delays,” said Kindiki.

He also revealed that plans are underway to construct 1,000 housing units within the vicinity to provide affordable accommodation for students and ease their learning experience.

Once complete, the centre is expected to revolutionise marine transport training in the region and serve as a hub for port logistics education in East Africa.

According to the Deputy President, the centre will also serve students from Tanzania, Uganda, Rwanda, Burundi, South Sudan, Congo and Ethiopia.

The Kenya Coast National Polytechnic, a leading Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) institution, is the implementing agency for the project.

In addition to the Shimoni project, the government is constructing fish landing sites in each of the six coastal counties as part of a broader plan to strengthen the blue economy. Each landing site will be equipped with specialised rooms for storage and refrigeration, ensuring proper handling and preservation of fish products.

This, according to the DP, will help reduce post-harvest losses and improve access to wider markets, both locally and internationally.

Kwale Governor Fatuma Achani said the centre will provide sufficient knowledge to youth spearheading the full exploration and exploitation of the blue economy opportunities to tackle the unemployment crisis.