Homa Bay Pier Phase II Advances With Modern Ferry Ramp Under KPA Oversight

Phase II of the Homa Bay Pier redevelopment is moving forward with the installation of a modern ferry ramp. The Kenya Ports Authority is leading the effort as part of wider investments in the Blue Economy around Lake Victoria.

Kenya Defence Forces personnel are supervising and overseeing the works on site. The project features an engineered 30-degree ferry gradient designed to support efficient roll-on and roll-off operations for vessels.

Pier view /Handout

Alongside the ramp, the development includes terminal buildings, warehouses, a dedicated ferry waiting bay and a permanent administrative office. Final finishing works such as wiring, painting and landscaping are now underway after the main structural elements reached substantial completion.

Amenities with the fish market in the distance /Handout

Once operational, the upgraded facility will serve as an important gateway for passenger and cargo movement. It will connect Homa Bay directly with domestic points including Kisumu, Mbita, Siaya, Busia and Migori, as well as lake islands such as Mfangano.

The pier is also expected to open new regional trade corridors. These routes link to Entebbe and Jinja in Uganda and Mwanza in Tanzania, strengthening cross-border commerce on Lake Victoria.

The State Department for Internal Security and National Administration is supporting the project through enhanced maritime security coordination. Officials are working with local agencies to improve enforcement within the port precinct and prepare for orderly operations ahead of full commissioning.

This phase builds on earlier upgrades at Homa Bay. Kenya Ports Authority has been expanding capacity at several smaller lake ports to reduce pressure on road transport and tap into the economic potential of inland waterways.

Reliable ferry services at the pier could cut travel times for residents and traders who currently rely on longer road journeys or less formal boat services. Improved infrastructure may also support growth in fisheries, tourism and small-scale trade along the waterfront.

Project details indicate steady progress toward handover. The combination of KPA implementation and KDF oversight reflects coordinated government efforts to deliver functional lake transport assets.

Local authorities and security agencies are expected to maintain close collaboration as the facility prepares for increased traffic and commercial activity.