Governor Mung'aro Unveils Bold Plan to Transform Kilifi's Blue Economy

Kilifi County has intensified efforts to strengthen maritime safety and protect its coastal communities through

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Kilifi County has intensified efforts to strengthen maritime safety and protect its coastal communities through a renewed partnership with Italian development organizations aimed at boosting the county’s Blue Economy agenda.

The latest commitment follows a high-level meeting between Kilifi Governor Gideon Mung’aro and Umberto Tavolato, the Executive Director of the Med-Or Italian Foundation who provided a strategic update on the ongoing Kilifi Blue Rise Project.

The initiative is being implemented by Italy’s Friuli Venezia Giulia Region with funding from the Italian Agency for Development Cooperation (AICS). It focuses on improving maritime safety, enhancing sea rescue systems, and increasing the resilience of fishermen and coastal communities that depend on the Indian Ocean for their livelihoods.

The discussions come as Kilifi prepares for the October-November-December (OND) rainy season, a period often associated with rough seas, unpredictable weather, and heightened risks for fishermen operating along Kenya’s coastline.

Governor Mung’aro said strengthening maritime safety remains a top priority for the county government, noting that protecting lives at sea is essential for sustaining economic activities linked to fishing, tourism, and marine transport.

He observed that the Blue Rise Project is expected to provide critical support in modernizing rescue operations, improving emergency response capacity, and equipping coastal communities with knowledge and systems that reduce the risks associated with adverse weather conditions.

The governor further noted that investments in maritime safety are central to unlocking the full economic potential of Kilifi’s coastline while ensuring that local communities benefit from sustainable use of marine resources.

The partnership also seeks to reinforce institutions involved in marine safety and environmental management, creating a coordinated framework for responding to emergencies and promoting responsible exploitation of ocean resources.

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Kilifi has increasingly positioned itself as one of Kenya’s leading coastal counties championing the Blue Economy through investments in fisheries, marine conservation, tourism, and coastal infrastructure.

County officials believe stronger collaborations with international development partners will accelerate ongoing efforts to create jobs, improve incomes for fishing communities, and enhance environmental sustainability.

Governor Mung’aro expressed appreciation to the Med-Or Italian Foundation, the Friuli Venezia Giulia Region, Froteam, and AICS for their continued support in advancing Kilifi’s development priorities.

He said the collaboration demonstrates the importance of international partnerships in addressing local challenges while creating lasting opportunities for coastal residents.

With the OND rains approaching, county authorities are expected to intensify preparedness measures, including improving coordination among emergency responders and sensitizing fishermen on safety procedures.

The renewed partnership is expected to play a significant role in safeguarding lives, strengthening institutions, and building a resilient Blue Economy capable of driving long-term economic growth and sustainable development across Kilifi County.