Kenya to collaborate with Singapore firm to boost seafarers’ training

Maritime Cabinet Secretary Hassan Joho recently held strategic discussions with Singapore’s Evergreen Marine Corporation to boost opportunities for Kenyan maritime cadets to gain crucial sea-time experience.

This partnership aims to equip local cadets with the practical skills needed to compete globally.

The collaboration is part of a wider vision to position Kenya as a major maritime player, not just regionally but on the international stage.

By enhancing training and experience, the country seeks to strengthen its maritime sector and open new pathways for its seafarers.

The meeting in Nairobi centered on building partnerships between Evergreen Marine, a global shipping leader, and Kenyan maritime training institutions, especially the Bandari Maritime Academy.

The talks were spearheaded by Cabinet Secretary Hassan Joho, with Evergreen Marine’s Chair Molly Mok and senior managers Solen Chuang and Jason Chang also in attendance.

Following the discussions, CS Joho emphasized the importance of giving Kenyan seafarers the exposure and experience required to compete internationally.

"Our cadets need quality sea time to meet global certification standards, and we are committed to making that a reality," he said.

Sea time—the period cadets spend onboard ships during training—is essential for obtaining international maritime certifications under the International Maritime Organization (IMO) standards.

Although Kenya produces a growing number of qualified maritime graduates, the country has faced challenges placing cadets on vessels due to limited opportunities with global shipping companies.

This gap has slowed the full integration of Kenyan cadets into the international maritime workforce, despite their training meeting global benchmarks.

However, Evergreen Marine’s expressed interest could help bridge this divide.

"We see strong potential in Kenya’s maritime talent. We’re exploring how Evergreen can support this talent while contributing to the region’s maritime growth," said Chair Molly Mok.

The discussions went beyond cadet placements to explore collaboration in shipbuilding, ship repair, and port infrastructure development—key sectors vital for a robust maritime industry and Kenya’s economic growth.

These areas are viewed as essential for strengthening the country’s maritime capabilities.

Kenya’s maritime strategy has seen significant progress recently, marked by increased investment in port upgrades, training, and regulatory frameworks.

Mombasa Port, the nation’s busiest, has undergone substantial modernization, while efforts to attract foreign investment aim to expand shipyard facilities and enhance repair services.

Experts believe Kenya’s strategic location along major shipping routes positions it well to become a regional maritime hub, provided it successfully integrates training, infrastructure, and policy.

This recent engagement with Evergreen Marine is among several international partnerships the government is pursuing to link Kenyan maritime talent with global industry leaders.

Similar talks with other major shipping companies aim to ensure that training at institutions like Bandari Maritime Academy translates into real job opportunities.

Cabinet Secretary Joho highlighted that for young Kenyans training as seafarers, these efforts could open more structured and meaningful career pathways.

"We want our seafarers to sail not just in Kenyan waters but to be recognized on every ocean, every major shipping route. This is not just a goal; it’s a mission we’re committed to achieving," he stated.