0
0
Principal Secretary for Shipping and Maritime Affairs, Geoffrey Kaituko, and Principal Secretary for Diaspora Affairs, Roseline Njogu, convened to explore opportunities for Kenyan seafarers abroad. The meeting, held on Tuesday, focused on unlocking the vast potential within the global maritime labour market for Kenyan workers.
Growing Global Demand for Seafarers
The maritime industry, which encompasses shipping, ports, and a variety of marine services, is currently experiencing a substantial demand for skilled labour. Industry estimates suggest a need for nearly 1.9 million seafarers worldwide, presenting a promising opportunity for Kenyan workers. Despite this demand, only about 4,000 Kenyans are currently employed in this sector, highlighting a significant gap that the country is keen to bridge.
Kenya’s Strategic Position and Potential
During the meeting, PS Kaituko emphasized the importance of positioning Kenya as a key player in the global maritime workforce. “There is a vast untapped potential in our workforce that we must harness,” he stated. The discussion underscored the need for Kenya to revamp its training programs to ensure that Kenyan seafarers are not only employable but also competitive on the international stage.
Enhancing Training and Development
One of the key areas of focus during the meeting was the improvement of training programs. The Kenya Maritime Authority’s METs Fund was highlighted as a crucial initiative providing financial aid for maritime education and training. PS Kaituko and PS Njogu agreed that aligning Kenya’s training programs with international standards is essential for creating a highly skilled and competitive maritime workforce.
Leveraging Diaspora Engagement
The meeting also explored the role of the Kenyan diaspora in supporting the growth of the maritime sector. Kenyan communities in maritime hubs such as the UAE, India, and the Philippines were identified as valuable resources for mentorship, job opportunities, and networking. By engaging with these communities, Kenya hopes to create pathways for aspiring seafarers and enhance their prospects in the global market.
Government Initiatives and Future Plans
The Kenyan government has already initiated reforms in port operations and is focusing on diaspora employment policies as part of a broader strategy to integrate Kenyans into the global maritime workforce. PS Njogu noted, “These reforms signal a promising shift towards a more inclusive and effective approach to employment in the maritime sector.”
The meeting concluded with a commitment to developing a comprehensive strategy that includes legislative support, enhanced training facilities, and stronger international partnerships. Both PS Kaituko and PS Njogu expressed optimism that these efforts will place Kenyan seafarers at the forefront of the maritime industry, creating more employment opportunities and contributing to the growth of the country’s maritime sector.
Looking Ahead
This high-level meeting marks a significant step towards realizing Kenya’s potential in the global maritime labour market. As the government works to implement these strategies, the future looks promising for Kenyan seafarers seeking to make their mark on the global stage.
