Likoni residents and transport stakeholders have expressed optimism after the government allocated Sh400 million in the 2026/27 Budget to upgrade and modernise ferry ramps at the Likoni Channel, a key transport link between Mombasa Island and the South Coast.
The funds are expected to go towards improving infrastructure at the Likoni Ferry crossing, which handles hundreds of thousands of passengers and thousands of vehicles daily.
The route remains one of the busiest and most congested transport corridors in the country, with commuters frequently experiencing long delays, overcrowding and occasional disruptions linked to maintenance works and equipment breakdowns.
Residents, transporters and traders have in recent months raised concerns over prolonged waiting times, safety challenges and rising costs linked to ferry use.
The situation has also been aggravated by intermittent repairs and operational disruptions, which have at times slowed movement between Mombasa Island and the South Coast.
For many locals, the latest allocation has brought cautious hope.
A commuter, Said Omar, said it was a relief but urged swift implementation. “We spend hours in the queue every day, especially in the morning and evening. If these ramps are fixed properly, it will make life easier for all of us who depend on the ferry,” he said.
Abdulrahman Bamzee noted that delays at the crossing often affect transport schedules and income. “Sometimes we lose customers because of the long waiting time. Any improvement will help us operate better and reduce losses,” he said.
A trader, Riziki Juma, who ferries goods from the South Coast to Mombasa, said efficiency at the crossing directly affects livelihoods. “When the ferry is slow, our goods arrive late, and we suffer losses. We are hopeful this money will change things,” she said.
A bodaboda rider, Peter Otieno, added that congestion at the ramp has become a daily struggle. “The queue is too long and sometimes chaotic. We just want a system that moves faster and is safer,” he said.
The allocation follows sustained pressure from Likoni Member of Parliament Mishi Mboko, who has repeatedly pushed for upgrades at the crossing.
She welcomed the budget decision, describing it as a step towards easing congestion and improving safety.
“We appreciate this budget. It is well-balanced and has addressed key needs that will bring relief to Kenyans in different sectors. On the Likoni Ferry, we have faced many challenges, including heavy congestion that has even led to loss of life at times. There have also been issues between passengers and security officers during crossings,” she said.
Mishi added that she had previously raised the matter in Parliament and engaged relevant committees to push for the rehabilitation of ramps, particularly at Mtongwe, as part of efforts to revive alternative routes and ease pressure on the main crossing.
She further noted that during recent engagements with national leadership, including discussions with President William Ruto, the issue of ferry congestion was highlighted as a priority transport concern.
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