Why baseline study is needed to unlock maritime potential

Container terminal at Mombasa port. [File, Standard]

Kenya stands at a crucial maritime crossroads. With over 600 kilometers of coastline, a strategic position along major shipping routes, and the region's largest port, our maritime potential remains largely untapped. Yet, we operate in an information vacuum - making decisions without comprehensive data, developing policies without complete understanding, and planning without a clear picture of our maritime landscape. The time has come for a national maritime baseline study, an investment that will pay dividends far beyond its initial cost.

Consider this: while we know Mombasa Port handles billions in trade annually, we lack precise data on our seafarer workforce, shipping operations and maritime education capacity. This knowledge gap isn't just an academic concern - it's costing us opportunities, jobs and revenue. How can we effectively train the next generation of maritime professionals without understanding current employment patterns? How can we attract investment without detailed sector analysis? How can we compete globally without knowing our strengths and weaknesses?