Frustration is growing among Kenya’s youth as the much-hyped blue economy dream continues to collapse under government delays, corruption claims, and broken promises. More than 50,000 potential jobs have already vanished, with many seafarers and young professionals left stranded despite years of anticipation.
Once promoted as a lifeline for youth unemployment, blue economy projects in shipping, fishing, and maritime training now lie stalled. Disillusionment is mounting. Critics accuse state agencies of sabotaging deals and failing to support crucial programs.
The big question remains—why is Kenya abandoning its most promising sector while its young people watch opportunities slip away?
Youth Frustration Over Deliberate Delays in Blue Economy Projects
Kenya’s blue economy projects were supposed to provide thousands of jobs for young people. Instead, the sector is now a story of frustration, lost opportunities, and alleged corruption.
The government dissolved the advisory secretariat that was meant to oversee key initiatives. Former member Stanley Chai says this decision created a major setback. Maritime analyst Andrew Mwangura also warned that the progress achieved under retired General Samson Mwathethe is now at risk.
Experts argue that interference and political wrangles have derailed the momentum. They urge the government to allow institutions like the Kenya Maritime Authority (KMA) and Bandari Maritime Academy (BMA) to operate independently.
Broken Promises in Maritime Jobs
For years, the government has promised opportunities for young seafarers. But many now feel betrayed.
At a recent BMA event supported by KMA, 1,800 youths submitted their CVs. However, insiders revealed that no real job offers existed. Critics say government agencies should not allow young people to be misled in this way.
The Mediterranean Shipping Company (MSC) had pledged 10,000 seafarer jobs and 2,000 annual sea-time slots. In return, it sought a concession for Terminal 2 at the port. Instead, officials reportedly blocked the deal in favor of rival company Maersk, leaving thousands of opportunities to slip away.
Another missed chance came when an international maritime company wanted to recruit 140 Kenyans from Middle Eastern hotels, offering salaries up to $3,000 for waiters. The plan collapsed after alleged sabotage by government offices.
KMA Under Fire Amid Rising Scrutiny
With public anger growing, the KMA recently issued a notice tightening recruitment rules. The statement, signed by Director General CPA Omae Nyarandi, outlined that:
No recruitment can take place without a KMA license.
Licensed agents cannot charge seafarers fees.
Licensed agents must file monthly reports.
KMA will not be liable for jobs through unlicensed recruiters.
While the directive aims to formalize the sector, critics believe it is a late reaction to mounting pressure. They argue that the system has failed the very people it was meant to serve.
One seafarer described the situation as “completely broken and outdated morally,” accusing leaders of ignoring youth concerns.
Faint Glimmers of Hope
Despite the chaos, some opportunities are still emerging. The launch of a Nairobi office by Wilhelmsen, a major global maritime company, offers fresh hope for employment.
But for many young people, this is too little compared to what was promised. Kenya has the potential to be a regional hub for maritime jobs. Instead, bureaucracy, political games, and alleged corruption continue to hold back progress.
As time passes, the disillusionment grows deeper. Thousands of young Kenyans still dream of working at sea, but without decisive government action, their hopes may never materialize.
