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Bandari Maritime Academy is Kenya’s premier maritime training institution. PHOTO/UGC.
By ANDREW MWANGURA
Kenya stands at a critical juncture in its maritime development, a moment ripe with potential yet fraught with challenges.
The latest “Deep Dive on Seafarer Sustainability” report from the World Maritime University, commissioned by the Lloyd’s Register Foundation, sheds light on the stark underrepresentation of African seafarers in the global workforce—just four percent, compared to Asia’s 50 percent.
For a nation like Kenya, strategically positioned along East Africa’s coastline and with access to the Indian Ocean, this presents not only a challenge but a golden opportunity to become a key player in the global maritime industry.
The global shipping industry is on the brink of a workforce crisis, with traditional seafaring nations facing declining interest in maritime careers. Africa, with its burgeoning youth population, presents an untapped resource, and Kenya, given its maritime heritage and geographical advantages, is uniquely positioned to bridge the gap. But to do so, bold action is required.
Kenya’s location along the East African coast, with Mombasa port serving as a vital gateway to East and Central Africa, gives it a distinct edge. Yet, the question is not whether Kenya should develop its maritime workforce, but how quickly it can scale up its efforts to do so. The government must urgently invest in maritime training and education to ensure it capitalises on this opportunity.
A key recommendation is the establishment of a National Maritime Workforce Development Authority. Such an authority, operating under the Ministry of Blue Economy and Maritime Affairs, would oversee the development of a cohesive national maritime workforce strategy.
This body would serve as a central hub, coordinating between training institutions, the maritime industry, and international stakeholders to create a comprehensive and sustainable workforce development plan.
A critical first step would be to modernise and expand Kenya’s Maritime Education and Training (MET) infrastructure. This includes a thorough audit of existing training facilities such as the Bandari Maritime Academy in Mombasa and the creation of a five-year expansion plan.
Key investments should focus on advanced simulator technologies for engine room and bridge operations, as well as the establishment of training centres in coastal counties like Lamu, Kilifi, and Kwale to reach a broader pool of talent.
Furthermore, the government must create a scholarship fund aimed at high-potential students, particularly from coastal and inland regions, to encourage more young people to pursue maritime careers.
This fund should cover tuition, certification costs, and exchange programmes with established maritime nations like the Philippines, Singapore, and Norway—countries with proven track records in maritime education.
The Kenya Maritime Authority (KMA) should also collaborate with the International Maritime Organization (IMO) to ensure that training programmes meet the highest international standards. This will not only improve the quality of Kenya’s maritime workforce but also enhance the employability of its graduates on the global stage.
Moreover, the establishment of bilateral recognition agreements with major flag states would streamline the certification process and reduce barriers to entry for new seafarers.
Another critical area for focus is gender inclusivity. The World Maritime University report emphasises the need for greater representation of women in maritime roles. Kenya has the opportunity to lead the way in East Africa by establishing a dedicated initiative to support female professionals in the industry.
This could include targeted scholarships, mentorship networks, and partnerships with maritime companies to ensure gender equality in the workplace.
In addition to these initiatives, Kenya should pursue funding opportunities from international bodies like the World Bank and the International Labour Organization (ILO) for infrastructure development and seafarer welfare.
By also offering tax incentives to companies that train Kenyan cadets or achieve gender diversity targets, the government can create a supportive environment for the growth of the maritime sector.
Positioning Kenya as East Africa’s maritime education hub is not just a social development strategy—it is an investment in the nation’s future. The potential economic impact is significant.
The remittances from seafarers alone could boost the Kenyan economy by millions of dollars annually, while the development of high-value maritime services such as ship management, maritime law, and marine insurance would further diversify and strengthen the economy.
The Lloyd’s Register Foundation report makes it clear that the maritime sector stands at a crossroads. Kenya has an exceptional opportunity to become a leader in African maritime development, but only if the government acts decisively.
By investing in training, infrastructure, and gender equality, Kenya could create thousands of high-quality jobs, contribute significantly to the global maritime workforce, and cement its place as a maritime powerhouse in East Africa.
Now is the time for bold action. Kenya’s maritime future is waiting to be realised.
The writer is a veteran merchant mariner.
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