President William Ruto has announced a Ksh1.5 billion investment in Kenya’s blue economy sector, reaffirming his administration’s commitment to transforming the lives of communities living around lakes and coastal regions.

Speaking at the closing ceremony of the Blue Economy Conference held at Tom Mboya University in Homa Bay County on May 30, 2025, Ruto emphasised the sector’s vast potential to drive economic growth, job creation, and environmental sustainability.

“We are deeply concerned with how the government can invest in projects that improve working conditions, enhance productivity, and diversify income sources for our people,” Ruto said.

The blue economy refers to the sustainable use of ocean, sea, lake, and river resources for economic development, improved livelihoods, and ecosystem conservation.

The President outlined a strategy aimed at empowering fisherfolk communities, particularly those around Lake Victoria, inland lakes, and the Indian Ocean.

He noted that the government will invest in modern fishing equipment and tools, upgraded fisheries infrastructure, sustainable aquaculture systems and training programs for youth and women.

The initiative will also boost related sectors such as marine transport, tourism, energy, and port development, creating new economic opportunities for local populations.

Ruto stressed the importance of environmental protection, adding that economic activities in the blue economy must be aligned with sustainability goals to preserve aquatic ecosystems for future generations.

“Our vision is a thriving, inclusive, and sustainable blue economy that uplifts our people while safeguarding our environment,” he said.

The government, Ruto said, will work in partnership with public, private, and community stakeholders to ensure coordinated action and equitable benefit-sharing.

Women and youth will be central to this strategy, with policies in place to facilitate access to resources, skills, and opportunities.

Ruto’s announcement comes as Kenya prepares to celebrate Madaraka Day on June 1st in Homa Bay under the theme: “Harnessing Kenya’s Blue Economy for Sustainable Growth.”

The leaders commended the President’s support and pledged their commitment to a broad-based government, expressing optimism about the sector’s role in Kenya’s future prosperity.

Tom Guda, national chairman of the Beach Management Unit (BMU), welcomed the Ksh1.5 billion pledge, saying it brings hope to the fisherfolk communities grappling with overfishing and declining fish stocks.

He emphasised the need for sustainable fishing practices and inclusive policy discussions to ensure the lake’s long-term viability.

He also urged the government to support fisherfolk in transitioning to aquabusiness and aquaculture.

Rwandan President Paul Kagame is expected to officially close the Blue Economy Conference on Saturday, ahead of the Madaraka Day celebrations on Sunday at Raila Odinga Stadium in Homa Bay. He will also join President Ruto at the Homa Bay State Lodge for bilateral discussions.

As the country prepares to mark 62 years of self-rule, the blue economy has emerged as a central pillar of Kenya’s economic transformation agenda—offering hope, opportunity, and sustainability for generations to come.