Kenyan cadets to benefit from international sea time training agreements

Muoki Charles-KNA

The Government has strengthened partnerships with industry players and other major maritime nations to boost the sector as well as create opportunities for graduates.

The Principal Secretary, State Department for Shipping and Maritime Affairs, Ministry of Mining, Blue economy and Maritime Affairs Geoffrey Kaituko said securing sea time for maritime graduates, which is a prerequisite for professional qualification is a challenge to most graduates.

He said through collaborations with Germany, Japan, South Korea, China, and other major maritime nations, the government has secured agreements that will allow Kenyan cadets to undergo sea-time training on international vessels.

Speaking during the award of accreditation of Mount Kenya University (MKU)’s new Malindi Maritime Academy by the Kenya Maritime Authority in Malindi town, the PS said these opportunities will offer the graduates hands-on experience as well as expose them to international maritime standards and operations.

He added that the state has also strengthened relationships with leading shipping lines such as Maersk, CMA CGM and Mediterranean Shipping Company (MSC) to have Kenyan cadets and maritime professionals given priority for placement on their fleets

“These partnerships help in creating sustainable career pathways for our maritime graduates, enabling them to gain not just sea time but also long-term employment in global maritime industries,” he said.

He added that the government is in discussions to create bilateral agreements with more countries to recognize Kenya’s maritime training certifications, specifically those issued by the Kenya Maritime Authority (KMA).

“These partnerships are designed to provide our maritime students with the critical sea time they need for their training and eventual certification,” he said.

He said the ministry has prioritized the development of the ports, particularly the Ports of Mombasa and Lamu to attract more international shipping lines.

“The global shortage of qualified seafarers means that there are immediate opportunities for well-trained cadets, engineers, and officers. According to the International Chamber of Shipping, the world is currently facing a deficit of around 26,000 officers, and this gap is expected to grow,” he said.

Dr. Vincent Gaitho, the Chairman, MKU University Council, said the move by the institution to establish the academy will help position the country as a global leader in maritime education and training.

He said the academy will create a direct pathway to high-demand careers in the maritime sector and will address the global shortage of qualified maritime professionals.

“The university has incorporated German and Korean language courses into its curriculum, languages which are vital in running the maritime sector,” he said.