Photo: Stockfile/FIS

Fish Processing Plant Launched in Homa Bay to Boost EU Exports

KENYA
Friday, April 18, 2025, 09:00 (GMT + 9)

Victory Farms invests in a large-scale fish value addition facility to support local fishermen and expand exports to Europe.

Homa Bay County, Kenya – Aquaculture firm Victory Farms has officially launched the construction of a new fish processing facility worth Sh140 million (approx. $1.08 million USD) at Rowo Beach in Suba Central Sub-county. The plant is part of a strategic move to increase fish exports to European markets and boost value addition in the region.

Dubbed the Suba Value Addition Centre, the facility aims to serve both Victory Farms and local fishermen, offering advanced processing capabilities to improve product quality and fetch higher market prices.

The groundbreaking ceremony was led by Sarah Malit, Homa Bay County Executive Member (CEM) for Fisheries, and Caesar Asiyo, Chief Development Officer at Victory Farms.

“We are building a high-capacity plant that can process up to 120 metric tons of fish per day. As our company expands into Migori and Siaya counties, we need facilities that can keep up with our growth,” said Mr. Asiyo.

A Boost for Local Economy and Sustainability

The plant is expected to significantly enhance local livelihoods by opening up new market opportunities for fishermen and supporting the local economy through job creation. According to Mr. Asiyo, the facility will also produce animal feeds from fish by-products sourced from Lake Victoria.

Ingredients such as soya beans and shrimp—locally known as ochong’a—will be used in the feed production process, creating additional demand for these often underutilized resources.

“Ochong’a has long been treated as waste and sold for throwaway prices. This plant will give it new value,” noted Ms. Malit, emphasizing the economic benefits for local fishermen.

She added that the Homa Bay County Government fully supports the initiative, recognizing its potential to create employment and improve incomes across the community.

“This project will provide meaningful job opportunities for our youth. We urge everyone to support it,” she said.

Strategic Employer in the Region

Dr. Joash Aloo, CEM for Trade and Investment, highlighted Victory Farms’ role as a key employer in the county.

“Many households in Homa Bay depend on this company for their livelihoods. Its continued growth is transforming lives in our communities,” he said.

Victory Farms’ investment in value addition and export readiness signals a new chapter for Kenyan aquaculture, aligning with national goals to increase exports and promote sustainable fisheries.

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