This archive report was first published on 3 August 2020.
Kenya's maritime industry is seeking to rebound from the COVID-19 pandemic, with the country accepting crew change and being given the nod to sign in 27,000 seafarers.
According to reports, Kenya became the second African country after Djibouti to open its borders for thousands of seafarers who had been denied entry into foreign countries due to the pandemic.
Speaking to Inside Government, Department of Shipping and Maritime Affairs Principal Secretary Nancy Karigithu noted that crew changeovers are essential for the continuity of shipping safely and sustainably.
"If we make Mombasa a crew change destination, this will mean growing a bigger pie for Kenya," said PS Karigithu.
The PS also highlighted the importance of the maritime industry in Kenya, stating that the shipping industry is a well-regulated industry, making it easy for seafarers to adapt to guidelines and protocols.
Kenya's acceptance of crew change has also led to the repatriation of seafarers, with PS Karigithu noting that immediately after telling the International Maritime Organization (IMO) that Kenya was open for seafarers' crew change, they managed to send some Ukrainians and Romanians home.
With over 200,000 seafarers stranded at sea and another 200,000 waiting to start employment, Kenya's move is seen as a positive step in addressing the global maritime crisis.
