Mining, Blue Economy, and Maritime Affairs Cabinet Secretary (CS) Hassan Ali Joho has emphasized the need for mandatory “sea time” experience for seafarer graduates. Speaking at the graduation ceremony of 100 youths at the Bandari Maritime Academy in Mombasa, Joho highlighted the importance of practical, hands-on exposure to bridge the gap between classroom learning and real-world application.
Joho noted that providing sea time immediately after graduation would enhance the safety, competency, and adaptability of new seafarers, enabling them to transition more smoothly into the maritime workforce. He urged maritime institutions to develop internship programs and practical training mechanisms, especially for graduates seeking international employment opportunities.
Expansion of Maritime Programs
The CS called on the Kenya Maritime Authority Chairman, Khamis Mwaguya, and Bandari Maritime Academy Director, Lewa Katana, to expand maritime programs to various Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) institutions. He emphasized the need to broaden the training capacity to accommodate more students, thus preparing a larger pool of young people for the job market.
“We cannot afford to train only a few seafarers each year. We need to expand our training capacity and prepare as many young Kenyans as possible for the growing opportunities in the global maritime industry,” Joho stated.
Focus on Employment Readiness
To further enhance the employability of graduates, Joho announced that he is working closely with relevant authorities to ensure that seafarer graduates receive a Seafarer’s Identity Card (SID) upon completion of their training. He explained that while the Standards of Training, Certification, and Watchkeeping for Seafarers (STCW) program qualifies graduates for jobs, the SID is essential for accessing certain international destinations.
“The STCW certificate opens doors, but without an SID, many opportunities remain inaccessible. We need to facilitate this document for our students to ensure they are ready for global job opportunities,” Joho added.
Reduced Training Fees and Local Support
In a move to make maritime education more accessible, Joho announced a reduction in the fees for the STCW training program from Ksh 35,000 to Ksh 15,000. This initiative aims to encourage more youth to pursue careers in the maritime sector.
Mvita MP Mohamed Soud Machele, whose constituency’s National Government Constituencies Development Fund (NG-CDF) sponsored the STCW program, reiterated the importance of investing in quality training. He noted that the initiative reflects a commitment to unlocking opportunities for youth in the blue economy, which is vital for the economic growth of Mombasa and the country.
“By equipping these graduates with the necessary skills, we are enabling them to contribute to the blue economy and enhancing our region’s economic prospects,” Machele stated.
Upcoming Social Health and Skills Initiatives
Mombasa County Governor Abdulswamad Shariff Nassir announced plans for a door-to-door mass registration for the Social Health Authority (SHA) insurance model within six days. He assured that the County Government would cover the insurance fees for less privileged residents to ensure they have access to adequate healthcare.
Additionally, Governor Nassir shared plans to expand the “Skills Mtaani” program to other parts of Mombasa County, including Likoni and Changamwe. The expansion aims to provide more youths with training opportunities and later integrate them into the STCW program.
“By February, we plan to expand the Skills Mtaani initiative, giving more young people the chance to acquire skills that will prepare them for employment, including in the maritime sector,” Nassir noted.
Notable Attendees and Industry Milestone
The event was attended by Principal Secretary for Shipping and Maritime Affairs Geoffrey Kaituko, Principal Secretary for Mining, Blue Economy, and Maritime Affairs Betsy Njagi, County Assembly Speaker Akharub Khatri, and various Members of the County Assembly (MCAs). The leaders praised MP Machele for initiating the STCW program at the Bandari Maritime Academy, marking a significant milestone in Kenya’s maritime sector.
The concerted efforts by the government and local leaders to enhance maritime training and create a skilled workforce underscore Kenya’s commitment to strengthening its position in the global maritime industry.
