Kishada Self Help Group in Faza, Lamu County, has seen a major turnaround after receiving a grant from the Kenya Marine Fisheries and Socio-Economic Development (KEMFSED) project to construct a boat yard.

The group, made up of local fishermen and boat makers, had long operated without a proper facility, working under harsh sun and rain that disrupted their business.According to Mwanasha Ali, a member of the group, the lack of a sheltered workspace led to delayed orders and loss of income.

“We used to work in the open. Now we can work even at night and finish client boats on time,” she said.

The project was made possible through the support of the Lamu County Government under Governor Issa Timamy, who played a key role in ensuring the community accessed KEMFSED funding and the project was implemented smoothly.

In addition to the construction of the boat yard, KEMFSED also built a modern toilet for the group, greatly improving hygiene and working conditions.Since the yard’s completion, the group has become more efficient and profitable. They now train young people in boat making, passing on vital skills and expanding job opportunities in the area.

“We were using traditional tools like hand drills. Now, we’ve grown, and the community benefits too,” Mwanasha noted.

This project is a clear example of how partnerships between communities, government, and development agencies can empower local livelihoods.

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For more information, contact the Communication Office at communication@lamu.go.ke.