Plans for Lake Victoria Waterfront Inch Closer as Kisumu Secures Grant

Kisumu County has inched closer to realising its ambitious plan to transform the Lake Victoria waterfront into a premier eco-tourism and investment destination, following the approval of a KSh97.5 million grant from the African Development Bank (AfDB).

The funding, secured under AfDB’s Urban and Municipal Development Fund, will finance a detailed feasibility study to guide the long-term urban redevelopment of the lakefront.

“The amount will be used for a full feasibility study to develop the Lake Victoria waterfront in Kisumu into a climate-resilient, inclusive and economically productive urban area,” confirmed a report from the Travel and Tour World.

The study will inform the Strategic Waterfront Development Plan, which aims to convert the Kisumu lakefront into a climate-resilient, inclusive, and economically productive zone.

This plan includes a 10-year action framework that will guide key projects such as a 46-kilometre-long promenade, redevelopment of key beaches, development of large public parks, and expansion of maritime infrastructure.

Setting a Benchmark in Sustainable Urban Planning

In line with global and national climate-smart infrastructure standards, the project will integrate environmental protection and sustainability.

The developments will be designed to withstand changing climate conditions and promote long-term urban resilience.

Kisumu County aims to use the outcome of the feasibility study to attract further local and international investments.

The waterfront project forms part of the county’s broader urban strategy to strengthen economic growth, improve quality of life, and position Kisumu as a model city for sustainable development in Kenya and across the region.

Eco-Friendly Growth, Jobs and Public Spaces

The redevelopment is expected to stimulate the local economy by enhancing tourism and creating job opportunities. Improved waterfront access, garden parks, modernised beaches, and promenades are designed to attract both local and international visitors.

These upgrades aim to boost investor interest, stimulate new businesses, and support job creation for residents.

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The county also emphasises inclusivity in the waterfront plan, ensuring all public spaces are accessible and beneficial to diverse community groups. Through public participation and community integration, the project seeks to support social cohesion and equitable development.

Lake Victoria Ring Road to Complement Waterfront Vision

Previously, KeNHA had shared to the public that they are in the process of securing funding from development partners, with construction expected to commence in the next financial year.

Estimated to cost Ksh 70 billion, the highway was said to feature a 7-metre carriageway, 2-metre shoulders, and provisions for non-motorised transport in urban areas.

According to Eng Julius MakOdero, the Lake Victoria Ring Road will play a critical role in complementing the waterfront transformation.

“The proposed 480-kilometre Lake Victoria Ring Road is set to be the largest infrastructure project in the region, traversing five counties: Busia, Siaya, Kisumu, Homa Bay, and Migori,” he said during a stakeholder briefing.

The road will begin in Bunyala, Busia, and pass through key landmarks including the Yala Swamp, Kisumu International Airport, Uma Hills, and Gwasi Hills before terminating at Muhuru Bay.

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It will follow existing highways (A12 and B2), incorporating new loops and alignments closer to the lakeshore to enhance accessibility.

“The project is expected to benefit nearly six million people directly in the lake region, and over ten million across the Lake Region Economic Bloc,” MakOdero added.

The road will support the growth of the blue economy by improving access to fish landing sites, ports, and regional markets, while also strengthening trade and integration with Uganda and Tanzania.

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