KMA: Maritime policy to boost trade

Kenya Maritime Authority (KMA) is implementing a maritime policy to boost investment in the sector. KMA, which regulates the maritime sector, noted that the policy would enable the agency address the recent discoveries and expected exploitation of offshore oil and gas. With the discoveries, this is expected to raise the volumes of cargo and put pressure on the development of ports and auxiliary infrastructure.

KMA Acting Director General Cosmas Cherop said the construction of the second port in Lamu is expected to have major impact on investments in the East African region. He said KMA had   set up branch offices in Lamu, Kisumu, Turkana and Lake Baringo in preparation for the tasks ahead. Mr Cherop made the remarks at a recent ‘Project East Africa Summit’ in Nairobi.

“Implementation of an integrated maritime policy also promises new opportunities in the sector for maritime professionals and increased economic activities in the maritime sector,” he said.Key opportunities for investment include public works and transportation, water and electricity, telecommunications and infrastructure for oil and gas.

According to KMA, the value of Kenyan waters also needs to be quantified and developed to support the growth of the maritime sector. Cherop noted that KMA has in collaboration with the Kenya Institute of Curriculum Development (KICD) developed a national maritime curriculum for training Kenyan seafarers.