Kenya stands on the brink of a transformative opportunity in the marine industry, Patrick Ntonja, Director of the Fisheries & Marine Institute at Pioneer International University (PIC) says.
Speaking at a sensitization forum on maritime opportunities held in Sotik town, Saturday, Ntonja emphasized that with the right measures, Kenya could significantly boost its economy through the blue economy sector.
The forum, organized by Sotik Member of Parliament (MP), Francis Sigei, aims to enlighten local youth about the potential within the marine industry.
The event was also attended by Sotik National Government Constituency Development Fund (NG-CDF) Chairman, Richard Kirui and Constituency Manager, Patrick Tonui.
Ntonja highlighted the immense economic potential of the marine sector, noting that Kenya could substantially increase its foreign exchange earnings, by tapping into the underutilized resource.
“The opportunities have been hidden for some time,” he remarked. “But I am happy that we are starting to make inroads into the sector and that the demand for Kenyan workers and companies is increasing.”
According to Ntonja, the marine industry holds the promise of creating numerous job opportunities, particularly for the unemployed youth.
He emphasized the need for skilled workers in the sector, advocating for enhanced training programs at institutions such as PIC, to equip individuals with the necessary skills.
The Scholar also voiced support for President William Ruto’s initiative to establish a standalone ministry dedicated to the blue economy, fisheries, and natural resources.
“The President is very passionate about helping Kenyans seize opportunities in the maritime sector,” Ntonja said. “This is the direction our country is taking.”
Ntonja pointed out that the world’s oceans cover 70 percent of the planet, yet many opportunities remain underexploited.
He stressed the need for Kenya to scale-up its investments and improve its logistical and shipping capabilities, noting that the country currently loses approximately Sh500 billion annually, due to inefficiencies in these areas.
Highlighting the potential for economic growth, Ntonja suggested that Kenya could generate up to one trillion shillings each year, from the marine and blue economy sectors.
However, he noted that the country has supplied only 12,000 seafarers over the past decade, which he says is a fraction of the demand.
Last year alone, there were opportunities for 10,000 seafarers, which Kenya failed to fully capitalize on.
Ntonja urged Kenyans to take advantage of training programs and short courses offered by universities to secure well-paying jobs in the marine industry.
He also emphasized the need to attract international investors by providing a skilled workforce.
“As the demand for sea jobs rises, we want to ensure that the training we provide at our university can meet the needs of the industry and attract investors,” Ntonja concluded.
The forum served as a crucial platform for raising awareness about the potential of the marine sector and the steps necessary to harness its benefits for Kenya’s economic growth.
By Lamech Willy A.
