KPA rolls out the Sh 1.76 billion compensation for Lamu fisherfolks
Lamu – March 22,2023
The Lamu fisherfolks are set to receive their cash compensation after the KPA Board Chairman Hon. Benjamin Tayari officially launched the signing of the agreement forms for the final stage of the payment process.
The Chairman assured the 4,734 fisherfolks that every qualified person or family in the validated list will be compensated within the existing legal guidelines.
KPA Board Chairman Hon. Benjamin Tayari (2nd L), General Manager Port of Lamu Eng. Vincent Sidai (L), Chief Administrative Secretary Hon. Ali Shariff (C), Lamu Deputy Governor Hon. Raphael Munyua and BMU Chairman AMU Mr. Abubakar Twalib during the official launch of the agreement forms.
“We are only handling the cash compensation phase which constitutes the 65 percent of the total Sh 1.76 billion cash compensation. Immediately after this phase, I have asked the Task Force to convene and plan for stakeholder consultations and utilization of the set aside 35 percent for sustainability of Lamu County fishing activities,” he said.
Hon. Tayari urged those involved to work round the clock and provide maximum support for successful completion of the exercise for the benefit of the fishing community.
He expressed delight on the progress at the Port of Lamu which received its 19th vessel on Sunday saying soon the Authority will acquire modern ship and cargo handling equipment to ensure the port emerges as the most competitive port of call in the region.
The Chairman announced the Authority’s plans to set aside Sh 50 million in the next financial year for training of the people of Lamu in maritime courses and other key fields that are relevant to maritime and logistics industry.
A section of fisherfolks following proceedings of the meeting.
“With unity of purpose, nothing is difficult. I wish the teams that are going to the field all the success as we look forward to completing the exercise and move to the next phase,” he added.
Addressing the meeting on behalf of Lamu County Commissioner, Lamu West Deputy County Commissioner Mr. Gabriel Kioni thanked the fisherfolks for patiently waiting for the compensation process.
“When you receive the cash please invest in profitable economic activities for the benefit of your families,” he said.
The DCC said most importantly the Lamu fisherfolks need to embrace the Port of Lamu and support its development saying it’s the only commercial port constructed in post-independent Kenya.
Group photo of the distinguished guests led by the Chairman Hon. Benjamin Tayari with the fisherfolks.
Chief Administrative Secretary (CAS) in the office of the Prime Cabinet Secretary Hon. Ali Sharif Athman, who is also former Lamu East MP and Lamu Deputy Governor Hon. Raphael Munyua equally urged the fisherfolks to prudently manage the cash.
The event was attended by a large number of Fisherfolks from across the region, many of whom expressed their gratitude to the government for its support.
“It is our hope that upon appending our signatures in the next 45 days everyone will have received their cash,” said Lamu County Beach Management Units (BMU) Chairman Mr. Somo Somo.