The Redeveloped Kisumu Waterfront Concept Proposal represents a forward-thinking vision that integrates environmental sustainability, social inclusivity, and economic vitality.
This comprehensive plan not only revitalizes the waterfront but also enhances its appeal as a vibrant, multi-use public space that reflects the unique culture and natural beauty of the region.
This conceptual development plan is grounded in practical considerations, incorporating all existing activities and beaches along the waterfront. It has been developed following an extensive site analysis and inventory of the waterfront and its surrounding areas, with careful attention to the interests of all stakeholders.
KEY FEATURES
1. Promenade & Ring Road
The promenade, a 6-meter-wide pathway, is designed for both pedestrians and cyclists, with 3 meters allocated for each. It runs along the lake and riverfront, integrating with existing roads to minimize disruption and construction costs.
The design is adaptable, ensuring that the promenade remains functional despite varying water levels due to climate change. The adjacent waterfront ring road, at 12 meters wide, also caters to vehicles, cyclists, and pedestrians, blending seamlessly with the promenade in certain sections.
2. Zoning and Mixed-Use Development
The waterfront has been carefully zoned to include residential, commercial, recreational, and conservation areas. The zoning guidelines allow for businesses within the 30-meter riparian zone, provided they contribute to the public realm, such as through open seating areas. This approach encourages a symbiotic relationship between commercial interests and public access.
3. Public and Recreational Spaces
The plan includes several public beaches, parks, and an aquapark, all designed to maximize public access and enjoyment of the waterfront.
4. Environmental Conservation and Wildlife Protection:
Significant portions of the waterfront are designated as conservation areas, including the Dunga Wetland and Hippo Grazing zones.
5. Maritime and Transport Infrastructure
The waterfront redesign includes a marina, a waterbus station, and boat-building facilities. These elements support both tourism and local economic activities, such as fish processing and boat construction.
6. Community
and Cultural Integration
The design includes spaces for community activities, such as the Nanga Affordable Housing project on reclaimed land, which addresses housing needs while incorporating recreational facilities like a football pitch. Additionally, the Dunga Handmade Products Tourists Center will empower local artisans by providing a platform to showcase and sell their crafts.
7. Land Reclamation
The redesign includes strategic land reclamation to expand usable space, particularly for residential developments and public amenities. The reclaimed land will accommodate both affordable and social housing.
STAKEHOLDER INCLUSIVITY
The redesign process involved identifying and considering the needs of six key stakeholder groups:
1. Residents
2. Visitors
3. Government organizations
4. Community groups
5. The natural environment
6. Commercial stakeholders
This inclusive approach ensures that the waterfront serves the diverse needs of the community .
THE KISUMU WATERFRONT INTERVENTIONS
The following area interventions outline the key components of this redevelopment, utilizing best practices in urban design and waterfront planning.
1. Public Beach
The creation of a public beach at Kisumu’s waterfront is a strategic intervention designed to activate the lakeshore as a multi-use public space. This beach will serve dual purposes: as a functional fish landing site for local fishermen and as a recreational area for residents and tourists. The beach will be equipped with thoughtfully designed seating areas, shaded pavilions, and accessible pathways to encourage inclusive use. The spatial layout will prioritize unobstructed views of Lake Victoria, offering a scenic environment for leisure while respecting the traditional fishing activities that are integral to the local economy. This integration of active and passive uses aligns with the principles of coastal urbanism, where waterfronts serve as both productive and recreational landscapes.
2. Plane spotting
The airplane spotting area is conceptualized as a passive recreation zone that leverages Kisumu’s unique geographic context. This intervention contributes to the diversity of recreational offerings at the waterfront, adding a niche attraction that enriches the overall visitor experience.
3. Recreational Beach Park
The recreational beach and park are envisioned as a green urban oasis’. This area will be landscaped with native vegetation, creating a natural buffer that enhances the ecological health of the lakeshore while providing shaded areas for picnicking, relaxation, and play. The park will feature a network of interconnected walking and cycling paths, water features, and outdoor fitness equipment, promoting active lifestyles. The design will emphasize seamless integration with the lake, with gently sloping shores that encourage safe access to the water for swimming and non-motorized water sports.
4. Watersports Center
The watersports center will be a flagship facility at the Kisumu waterfront, serving as a hub for competitive water sports activities. Designed to accommodate a range of activities, from rowing and sailing to kayaking and stand-up paddle boarding, the center will include a fully equipped boathouse, training rooms, and a multi-purpose dock. The center will also host events, competitions, and workshops, positioning Kisumu as a regional leader in aquatic sports.
5. Marina, View Deck, and Public Beach with Adjacent Hotels
The marina, view deck, and public beach, flanked by hotels, are designed as a vibrant nexus of activity, where leisure, hospitality, and waterfront access converge. The marina will provide docking facilities for a variety of watercraft, including sailboats, motorboats, and kayaks. The view deck, elevated to offer sweeping panoramic views of Lake Victoria, will serve as a prime vantage point for residents and visitors to appreciate the natural beauty of the area. The public beach, accessible from the hotels, will feature a broad promenade, outdoor dining areas, and public art installations. This intervention exemplifies the integration of public and private realms, where hospitality and recreation enhance each other, contributing to a dynamic and economically vibrant waterfront.
6. Boat Building
The inclusion of a boat-building facility at the waterfront is a nod to Kisumu’s rich maritime history and the artisanal skills that have been passed down through generations. This small-scale facility will focus on the construction and repair of traditional wooden boats, providing an authentic cultural experience for visitors. Guided tours that allow the public to observe the boat-building process. This intervention not only supports the local economy but also adds a cultural dimension to the waterfront.
7. Oil
Depot with Elevated Promenade
The existing oil depot, a critical industrial facility, will be retained but reimagined to coexist with the public waterfront through the introduction of an elevated promenade at its outer edge. This design solution addresses the need for safe pedestrian and cyclist circulation while maintaining the operational integrity of the depot. This intervention illustrates the potential for industrial and public spaces to coexist harmoniously, enhancing the waterfront’s functionality without compromising safety or accessibility.
8. Restaurants
New waterfront restaurants will be developed to replace the iconic Lwangni Beach restaurants, which were a beloved part of Kisumu’s culinary scene. These new establishments will be strategically located to maximize accessibility, with a unique floating connection that links them directly to the CBD. This intervention not only revitalizes the local culinary scene but also strengthens the connection between the city and the waterfront, making it a must-visit destination for both locals and tourists.
9. Golf Course
The existing golf course will be preserved and thoughtfully integrated into the waterfront redevelopment plan. The course will serve as a green buffer, providing a visual and physical transition between the urban fabric and the natural waterfront. The promenade will be carefully routed along the edge of the golf course, offering picturesque views of the rolling fairways and the lake beyond. This integration will be achieved without compromising the functionality of the golf course, ensuring that it remains a premier recreational facility. By maintaining the golf course, the waterfront plan respects the existing recreational infrastructure while enhancing its connectivity to the broader waterfront experience.
10. Conserved Area
A designated conservation area will be established at the Kisumu waterfront to protect critical fish breeding grounds and small wildlife species. This area will be managed as a natural reserve, with limited human intervention to ensure the preservation of biodiversity. The design will incorporate educational signage, observation decks, and guided tours to raise awareness about the importance of conservation.
11. Public
Aquapark for Performance and Events
The public aquapark will be a dynamic space designed to host performances, events, and recreational activities. This facility will include an amphitheater, event lawns, and water-based play areas, making it a central hub for cultural and community gatherings. The design will emphasize flexibility, allowing the space to accommodate a variety of events, from music festivals to community workshops. Water features, such as interactive fountains and splash pads, will add a playful element to the park, making it a popular destination for families. The amphitheater, with its lake-facing stage, will provide a stunning backdrop for performances, creating memorable experiences for both performers and audiences. This intervention enhances the cultural vibrancy of the waterfront, making it a place where art, entertainment, and community life flourish.
12. Public Beach Park
The development of a public beach park with a direct connection to the CBD is a strategic intervention aimed at enhancing urban connectivity and accessibility. This park will serve as a green gateway to the waterfront, providing a seamless transition from the urban core to the lakeside. The design will prioritize pedestrian and cyclist access, with wide, tree-lined pathways that connect the CBD to the park and the broader waterfront. The park will include a variety of amenities, such as playgrounds, picnic areas, and open lawns, making it a versatile space for recreation and relaxation. The integration of public art and interpretive displays will enrich the visitor experience, creating a culturally and aesthetically engaging environment.
13. Floating
Connection with Viewing Deck
The floating connection is one of the most innovative features of the Kisumu waterfront redevelopment. This floating structure will link the eastern and western sections of the waterfront, providing a unique mode of pedestrian transport across the lake. The design will include a central viewing deck and resting area, where visitors can pause to take in panoramic views of the lake, surrounding landscape and Kisumu’s Skyline.
14. Waterbus Station
The relocation of the waterbus station is a critical intervention aimed at improving the integration of water-based and land-based transportation systems. The new station will be strategically located within walking distance of the Kisumu Bus Station and the New Railways Station, facilitating easy transfers between different modes of transport. The relocation will also enhance the efficiency of waterbus services, reducing congestion and improving the overall user experience. This intervention is a key component of the waterfront’s transport strategy, ensuring that the redevelopment supports an integrated mobility option.
15. Kisumu Port
Kisumu Port will be maintained as a functional gateway to Lake Victoria, supporting both commercial and recreational maritime activities. The port will be modernized to improve its operational efficiency, with upgraded docking facilities, cargo handling equipment, and security measures. A portion of the port near Impala Park will be opened to the convention center, creating a new pedestrian and cyclist route that enhances connectivity between the port and the surrounding developments.
16. Impala Park
The park will be integrated into the waterfront plan.
The tree-covered promenade along the outer edge of Impala Park is designed to preserve and enhance the natural beauty of this important urban green space. The promenade will be carefully routed to minimize disruption to the park’s existing ecosystems while providing shaded, scenic pathways for pedestrians and cyclists. Occasional openings in the tree cover provides framed views of the lake, creating a series of ‘natural windows’ that enhance the promenade experience. This intervention exemplifies the principles of landscape urbanism, where the design of urban spaces is informed by the natural landscape, resulting in harmonious and sustainable environments.
17. Yacht Club
The Kisumu Yacht Club will remain a central hub for nautical recreation at the waterfront. This exclusive club, with its rich history and active membership, will continue to offer sailing, boating, and other water-based activities. The design of the surrounding waterfront will ensure that the club retains direct access to the lake. The promenade will be designed to respect the privacy of club members while providing opportunities for the public to engage with the club’s activities through organized events and open days. This intervention ensures that the waterfront remains a vibrant and inclusive space, where private and public interests coexist in a balanced and mutually beneficial manner.
18. Hippo Grazing and Conserved Area
The hippo grazing area at the Kisumu waterfront is a critical conservation zone, designed to protect one of the region’s most iconic wildlife species. This area will be managed to ensure that hippos can graze freely between sections of the wetland, with minimal human interference. A wildlife passage will be created under the bridge, allowing safe movement for hippos between grazing areas. The design will also include viewing platforms, providing educational opportunities for visitors while maintaining a safe distance from the animals.
19. Hippo Point
Hippo Point will continue to serve as a popular public space, offering opportunities for wildlife viewing, boat riding, and enjoying the stunning sunsets over Lake Victoria. The design of Hippo Point will be enhanced to accommodate more visitors while preserving its natural character. New seating areas, picnic spots, and observation decks will be introduced, providing comfortable spaces for recreation and wildlife observation. The area will also support small-scale recreational fishing and fish landing activities, maintaining its traditional use while enhancing its appeal as a tourist destination.
20. Floating Park
The floating park is an innovative feature of the Kisumu waterfront, designed to provide a unique recreational space while supporting ecological sustainability. This park will be constructed on floating platforms, anchored to the lakebed but flexible enough to adjust to varying water levels. The design will include green spaces, walking paths, seating areas, and water features, creating a serene environment that floats above the lake. The park will be managed by the Kenya Wildlife Service, with a focus on promoting biodiversity and educating the public about the importance of wetland conservation.
21. Hotels with Waterfront Access.
Hotels along the Kisumu waterfront will be designed to provide guests with direct access to the lakeshore, offering a premium visitor experience that combines luxury with natural beauty. The design of these hotels will prioritize unobstructed views of the lake, with balconies, terraces, and large windows that bring the outside in.
22. Floating Restaurants.
Floating restaurants will be introduced as part of the Kisumu waterfront redevelopment, offering a unique dining experience that combines local cuisine with the ambiance of being on the water. These restaurants will be constructed on floating platforms, with spacious dining areas, open-air decks, and panoramic views of the lake. The floating restaurants will be ideal venues for special events, including weddings, corporate functions, and private parties, adding a new dimension to Kisumu’s hospitality offerings.
23. Public Beach – Recreational
The recreational public beach is designed to be a safe, inclusive, and vibrant space for all members of the community. This beach will be dedicated exclusively to recreational activities, with fish landing prohibited to ensure a clean and safe environment. The design will include lifeguard stations, accessible pathways, shaded seating areas, and facilities for beach volleyball, soccer, and other sports.
24. Public Beach – Fish Landing
The fish landing public beach is designed to celebrate and support Kisumu’s traditional fishing livelihoods, providing a dedicated space for fishermen to land, process, and sell their catch. The design of this beach will include facilities for fish cleaning, storage, and sale, as well as shaded seating areas where visitors can observe and interact with the fishermen.
25. Hotels and Restaurants with Promenade Access
Hotels and restaurants along the Kisumu waterfront will be designed to balance public access with private interests, ensuring that the waterfront remains an inclusive space for all. These establishments will be required to provide a 6-meter leeway for the promenade, allowing the public to enjoy uninterrupted access to the lakeshore. The design will include porous perimeter walls and landscaped buffers, creating visual and physical connections between the public and private realms. Outdoor dining areas, cafes, and retail spaces will be integrated into the promenade, enhancing the vibrancy and appeal of the waterfront. This intervention ensures that the waterfront remains a dynamic and accessible space, where commercial development supports and enhances public use.
26. Public Beach – Mixed Use
The mixed-use public beach is designed to accommodate a variety of activities, including fish landing, recreational use, and tourism. This beach will be divided into zones, with areas dedicated to fishing, swimming, and sunbathing, ensuring that different user groups can coexist harmoniously. The design will include facilities for boat tours, fishing expeditions, and cultural performances, creating a vibrant and multifunctional space that caters to both locals and visitors. The beach will also feature shaded seating areas, food stalls, and public art installations.
27. Dunga Fish Market and Processing
Dunga Beach will continue to serve as a key site for fish landing, processing, and sale, supporting the local economy and providing fresh fish to the community. The market will be revitalized with new facilities, including modern fish cleaning stations, cold storage, and retail spaces. The design will prioritize hygiene and efficiency, with clear zoning for different activities and easy access for fishermen and customers alike.
28. Floating Ecolodge
he introduction of floating ecolodges along the Kisumu waterfront represents an innovative approach to sustainable tourism. These ecolodges, designed with environmental stewardship in mind, will offer a unique accommodation experience for visitors, floating gently on the waters of Lake Victoria. Constructed using eco-friendly materials and powered by renewable energy sources, the floating ecolodges will minimize their environmental impact while providing luxury and comfort to guests. Each ecolodge will feature panoramic views of the lake, private decks for relaxation, and direct access to the water, allowing guests to immerse themselves in the natural beauty of the area. The design will also include measures to protect the surrounding aquatic ecosystem, ensuring that the ecolodges coexist harmoniously with their environment. This intervention will attract eco-conscious travelers and contribute to Kisumu’s reputation as a destination for sustainable tourism
29. Dunga Wetland
The Dunga Wetland is a critical ecological zone within the Kisumu waterfront, serving as an important bird-viewing area and fish breeding ground. To preserve its biodiversity, the wetland will be conserved and enhanced through a series of interventions aimed at promoting sustainable ecotourism. Non-motorized boating will be introduced, allowing visitors to explore the wetland without disturbing the delicate ecosystem. Guided nature tours will educate visitors about the wetland’s unique flora and fauna, while promoting conservation awareness. The existing Dunga Wetland boardwalk will be extended, providing more opportunities for visitors to experience the natural beauty of the area up close. The design will prioritize minimal environmental impact, with careful consideration given to the placement of pathways and viewing platforms, and interpretive signage.
30. Affordable and Social Housing
Reclaiming land in areas prone to flooding provides an opportunity to address the pressing need for affordable housing in the region. The Nanga Affordable Housing project will transform reclaimed land into a vibrant residential community, offering high-quality social housing within reach of the waterfront. This development will provide a viable alternative to the Nyalenda Informal Settlement, offering modern, well-planned homes with access to essential services and amenities. The design will include a mix of housing types to accommodate different family sizes and income levels, ensuring social inclusivity. The community will also feature a football pitch, responding to the local demand for active recreational spaces and fostering a sense of community through sport.
31. Dunga Handicraft Products Center
The Dunga Handmade Products Tourist Center will be a vibrant hub for local artisans to showcase and sell their handmade crafts, including chairs, beads, baskets, and other traditional products. This center will not only support the livelihoods of local craftsmen and women but also provide visitors with a unique cultural experience. The center will include workshops where visitors can observe artisans at work, learn about the craftsmanship involved, and even participate in hands-on craft-making sessions. Retail spaces will be designed to enhance the display of products, creating an inviting atmosphere that encourages visitors to purchase locally-made goods.
CONCLUSION
A Critical Priority for Waterfront Revitalization – Riverbank and Lake Rehabilitation
The first and most urgent priority in the Kisumu waterfront redevelopment is the comprehensive rehabilitation of the riverbanks and the lake. This initiative is crucial for addressing the rampant pollution from sewage, chemicals, and other pollutants that have severely degraded the water quality. Not only must local sources of pollution be controlled, but upstream pollution sources also need to be identified and mitigated to prevent further contamination.
The aggressive management of invasive species such as water hyacinth, which currently chokes the lake and inhibits waterfront activities, is also essential. This ecological intervention will not only enhance the aesthetic value of the waterfront but also make it safe and viable for recreational and commercial activities.
Utilizing the Waterfront and the Water itself – Creating
a Dynamic Public and Semi Public Space
The redevelopment of the Kisumu waterfront aims to fully capitalize on the unique opportunities that a waterfront location presents. A waterfront provides a dynamic environment for various activities that can drive social, economic, and environmental benefits. The plan includes a range of water-based activities, from boating and fishing to leisure cruises and watersports, making the waterfront a vibrant hub of activity.
Public-private partnerships are crucial for unlocking the full economic potential of the waterfront, bringing in investment for developments like hotels, restaurants, and cultural centers while ensuring that public benefits are not compromised.
The integration of public and semi- public spaces will be carefully managed to ensure that the waterfront serves as an inclusive, vibrant, and economically viable destination, benefiting both the local community and the wider region.