The government of Kenya has announced plans to develop a build a premier fishing port in Shimoni in Kwale County. Kenya Ports Authority (KPA) that is overseeing the development of smaller ports along the coast recently revealed the plans and said that construction of Shimoni Port has been given the green light.
The authority said confirmed that they have been directed by the National Environment Management Authority (Nema) to conduct a Heritage Impact Assessment for the conservation of archaeological and cultural sites found in the area.
Heritage Impact Assessment
The Heritage Impact Assessment outlines the historic or archaeological significance of a building or landscape within its wider setting. It outlines proposed works, an assessment of their impact on the building or landscape and a mitigation strategy.
These cultural sites include Shimoni caves, which historians say were used to detain slaves before being sold during the slave trade era. There are also old office buildings in the area that still stand today in what was once the capital of Kenya Protectorate in Shimoni.
KPA’s Head of Projects Development and Management William Tenay said the project would be undertaken in phases. The new jetty will be dedicated to handling fish products as required by international standards. Nema County Director for Kwale Godfrey Wafula rooted for the conservation of corals during the construction phase as fishing and farming continue.
