June 15, 2020

Denmark helping Kenya to refloat shipping sector

Kenya and Denmark have signed a five-year agreement which will see Danish shipping company Det Forenede Dampskibs-Selskab (DFDS) training Kenyan maritime cadets for the next five years.

“This agreement will enable Kenya marine engineering and nautical science cadets acquire seagoing service of 12 months which is a mandatory requirement towards attainment of professional qualifications in the maritime industry either as marine engineering officers or navigating officers,” says Nancy Karigithu, the Kenyan permanent secretary for maritime and shipping affairs, said in a statement.

While Kenya has five institutions offering marine engineering and nautical science courses, the graduates are reported to be finding it challenging to secure the required shipboard training.

According to Karigithu the sea-going training will help revive the Kenyan shipping industry, which has been stagnating.

“We have got one of the longest coastlines in Africa, and it’s sad that we are not a power to reckon with when it comes to shipping and other maritime affairs in the continent.

“But, with the setting up of the new department that I am heading, as well as partnerships with notable global players like Denmark, I am sure the situation will change,” Karigithu said.

Government support for the Kenyan maritime sector includes the passing of legislation which requires that imported cargo be insured by local underwriters.

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Issued by Issued by Siyathetha Communications on behalf of the South African International Maritime Institute.

Contact:
SAIMI CEO: Odwa Mtati – 082 783 6810 Siyathetha: Ed Richardson: +27 41 582 3750 / 083 656 9757

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