This archive report was first published on 22 July 2019.
As the government invests heavily in the blue economy, the maritime industry is facing a looming shortage of specialists. According to industry players, opportunities in the maritime sector are yet to be fully exploited.
With the government's focus on improving the industry, stakeholders are urging the youth to explore career opportunities in maritime. The recruitment of over 1900 youths to pursue various courses is underway, aiming to make them maritime specialists and spur Kenya's economy.
Chairman of the Saido Foundation, Said Abdalla, lamented the unfortunate trend of youth engaging in illegal activities at the expense of their future. He praised the recent commissioning of the Bandari Maritime Academy at Kilindini port in Mombasa, which he believes will meet the rising demands of the emerging blue economy sector.
The blue economy is expected to inject up to $4.8 billion and create over 52,000 jobs in the next 10 years if properly harnessed. With the government's investment, the maritime industry is poised for growth, but the shortage of specialists must be addressed.
