Research

Digital Maps & GIS

KMFRI Geographic Information Systems & Aquatic Resource Maps

Spatial Data for Fisheries Management

KMFRI maintains a growing collection of digital maps and GIS datasets covering Kenya's marine and freshwater environments. These spatial resources support fisheries management, marine conservation, coastal planning, and scientific research across all major water bodies.

Maps are developed using field survey data, remote sensing, and collaborative research with regional and international partners to provide accurate, up-to-date spatial information.

Spatial Data

Map Collections

Explore KMFRI’s curated GIS layers and spatial datasets

Fishing Grounds & Landing Sites

  • Artisanal fishing grounds along Kenya’s coast
  • Industrial and semi-industrial fishing zones
  • Beach Management Unit (BMU) boundaries
  • Fishing effort and seasonal hotspots

Marine Protected Areas

  • National marine parks and reserves
  • Community-managed marine areas
  • Coral reef extent and condition layers
  • Critical habitat and no-take zones

Oceanographic Features

  • Bathymetric charts of Kenya’s coastal waters
  • Ocean current patterns and circulation
  • Sea surface temperature (SST) layers
  • Upwelling zones and productivity areas

Marine Ecosystems & Habitats

  • Coral reef distribution and health status
  • Seagrass bed extent and coverage
  • Mangrove forest boundaries and species
  • Important fish spawning and nursery areas

EEZ & Maritime Boundaries

  • Kenya’s Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) boundary
  • Territorial sea and contiguous zone limits
  • Fisheries management and licensing zones
  • International maritime boundary agreements

Inland Waters & Lakes

  • Lake Victoria fisheries and habitat maps
  • Lake Turkana and Rift Valley lakes coverage
  • River systems and floodplain extents
  • Aquaculture site suitability layers
GIS Platform

Data Features

All spatial datasets are provided with associated metadata and attribution

  • Downloadable GIS Files
  • Full Metadata Records
  • Multiple Format Support
  • Regular Data Updates
  • Layered Datasets
  • Coordinate Systems
Data Licensing

All KMFRI spatial datasets are available for scientific and research purposes. Commercial use requires prior written permission. Please attribute KMFRI as the data source in any publications or products derived from these maps.