Bofu Ward in Likoni Constituency: A Comprehensive Overview.

Bofu ward stands as a vital component of Likoni Constituency, offering a unique blend of urban coastal living with developing infrastructure. This report explores the geographical, demographic, economic, and developmental aspects of this dynamic ward in Mombasa County.

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Geographic and Administrative Context.

Bofu ward is one of the five electoral wards within Likoni Constituency in Mombasa County. With an area of approximately 1.60 square kilometers, it is relatively compact compared to other wards in the constituency. The ward comprises the Bofu Sub-Location of Mombasa County and has a population of approximately 29,154 residents, making it densely populated.

Likoni Constituency itself covers approximately 105.9 square kilometers (excluding 30 square kilometers of water mass) and is strategically positioned in the southeastern part of Kenya’s Coast Region. The constituency borders Changamwe Constituency to the west, Mvita Constituency to the north, the Indian Ocean to the east, and Kwale County to the south and west. Besides Bofu, the constituency includes four other wards: Timbwani (the largest), Mtongwe, Likoni, and Shika Adabu.

The current Member of Parliament for Likoni Constituency is Mishi Juma Mboko, representing the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) party. The constituency is noted for its diverse population, with representation from numerous ethnic groups across Kenya, creating a multicultural environment.

Demographic Characteristics.

Bofu ward’s high population density reflects the broader trend in Likoni Constituency, which is characterized by affordable housing options and a relatively secure environment. This has made the area attractive to a wide range of residents from various socioeconomic backgrounds.

The ward is part of a constituency that serves as home to a diverse mix of Kenya’s ethnic communities, contributing to its rich cultural tapestry. This diversity is reflected in the housing styles, commercial activities, and community structures throughout the ward.

Real Estate Market Analysis.

Houses, Flats & Land for Sale in Bofu, Mombasa-Housing Prices.

The residential property market in Bofu ward offers relatively affordable housing options compared to other parts of Mombasa County, though prices vary significantly based on property type, location, and amenities.

A typical example is a 9-bedroom Swahili house in Ushindi, Bofu that was listed for sale at KSh 2,500,000 (negotiable) as of April 2025. This property spans 100 square meters, comes with water and prepaid electricity connections, and reportedly generates a monthly rental income of KSh 20,000. Such properties represent the traditional housing style in the area and often serve as income-generating assets for owners.

At the higher end of the market, newer developments such as the Villa Paradiso Estate Project in the broader Bofu area indicate an emerging market for more upscale properties, with the average property price in this segment reaching approximately KSh 20 million. This significant price variation demonstrates the evolving nature of the real estate market in Bofu and surrounding areas.

Property For Sale in Bofu-Land Prices.

Land values in Bofu ward and the broader Likoni Constituency vary considerably based on location, proximity to infrastructure, and access to amenities:

Standard Residential Plots: Basic plots in the Likoni area range from KSh 350,000 to KSh 850,000, depending on size and location.
Plots with Existing Structures: Land parcels with partially developed structures typically sell for KSh 430,000 to KSh 750,000, reflecting the added value of initial construction.
Beach-Adjacent Properties: Land near or with beach access commands premium prices, with a 3/4-acre beach plot listing for KSh 15,000,000 to KSh 17,500,000.
Premium Beach Frontage: Direct beachfront properties represent the highest tier of the market, with a 1-acre beach plot at Shelly Beach listing for KSh 50,000,000.
Large Development Parcels: Substantial land parcels suitable for development projects, such as a 50-acre beach plot at Bofa Beach, are priced at approximately KSh 25,000,000 per acre.

The land market shows particular premiums for properties with ocean views or beach access, reflecting the tourism potential of the area. Additionally, plots located near main roads or with good infrastructure connections typically command higher prices than those in less accessible areas.

Infrastructure Development.

Likoni Constituency, including Bofu ward, has been the focus of several significant infrastructure projects aimed at improving connectivity, transportation efficiency, and overall quality of life for residents.

Transportation Infrastructure.

Likoni Cable Express Project: This ambitious project proposes the construction of a cable car system across the Likoni Channel. Environmental and Social Impact Assessment (ESIA) was prepared in November 2020, indicating the project’s advanced planning stage. This system would provide an alternative transportation option to the current ferry system, potentially reducing commute times significantly.
Likoni Floating Bridge: A 700-meter floating bridge across the Likoni channel was under construction as of 2020, with an estimated cost of Sh1.7 billion. The bridge runs from Liwatoni in Mombasa Island to Ras Bofu (Peleleza) in Likoni and was designed to reduce crossing time to just seven minutes. This project represents a significant investment in improving connectivity between Mombasa Island and the mainland areas including Bofu ward.
Likoni Road Bridge: There have been concerns about delays in the construction of the Likoni Road Bridge, a project that started in October 2020. The Public Investments Committee on Commercial Affairs & Energy has raised questions about the delays during inspection visits to the Kenya Urban Roads Authority (KURA).
Road Maintenance Projects: Ongoing maintenance work includes the “Loreto Convent MBS – Santok Ben, Likoni – Mombasa Hosp Link Road Package 3 Roads” project, which is part of a twelve-month maintenance contract for roads in Mombasa County. These maintenance efforts are crucial for preserving the existing road infrastructure.

Urban Development Planning.

The Mombasa County development plans specifically identify Likoni as an area where “Housing and infrastructure services have to be improved, including roads and drainage”. Additionally, housing development is anticipated in several areas including Likoni, reflecting the recognition of housing needs in the constituency.

The development strategy for Mombasa includes a multi-core approach that aims to strengthen existing urban areas and develop new urban centers with clear hierarchies. This strategy includes improving linkages through developing missing connections and enhancing existing ones, which would benefit residents of Bofu ward by improving accessibility and potentially increasing property values.

Economic Landscape.

The economic profile of Bofu ward is characterized by a mix of residential, commercial, and informal economic activities. The National Government Constituency Development Fund (NG-CDF) is described as “a key driver of socio-economic development in the constituency,” focusing on projects with immediate socio-economic impact aimed at improving lives and alleviating poverty.

The proximity to the Likoni ferry crossing and proposed new transport infrastructure positions Bofu strategically for potential economic growth. The planned infrastructure developments, if completed, could significantly enhance connectivity to Mombasa Island, potentially boosting property values and commercial opportunities in the ward.

Conclusion

Bofu ward in Likoni Constituency presents a complex picture of urban development challenges and opportunities. While it faces infrastructure deficits common to many rapidly urbanizing areas, it also benefits from strategic location and ongoing infrastructure investments that could transform its accessibility and economic potential.

The real estate market shows significant variation in prices, reflecting different segments from affordable traditional housing to more premium developments. Land prices similarly vary widely based on location and amenities, with beachfront properties commanding substantial premiums.

The success of major infrastructure projects like the Likoni Cable Express and floating bridge will be critical in determining the future trajectory of development in Bofu ward. If these projects are completed successfully, they could catalyze further investment and development, potentially transforming the ward’s economic landscape and real estate market.

For residents, investors, and policymakers, understanding these dynamics is essential for making informed decisions about living, investing, or implementing development initiatives in Bofu ward and the broader Likoni Constituency.

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