An international logistics firm-Maersk, in partnership with the Kenya Ports Authority (KPA), has launched a comprehensive 12-month maritime training programme aimed at developing the country’s maritime sector and the Blue Economy.
The inaugural Cadet Training Programme is poised to strengthen the country’s position in the global maritime sector by providing valuable career opportunities for the youth.
The programme is designed to close the skills gap and certifications in the maritime sector by offering intensive training, mentorship, and practical exposure to Maersk vessels.
The ten selected cadets will be provided with crucial sea-time training that will enhance their competency and enable them to compete for international maritime jobs.
Maersk Eastern Africa Region Acting Managing Director Oliver Bunting says the programme is a testament to the company’s commitment to Kenya and its immense potential as a maritime and logistics powerhouse.
Bunting noted that for aeons, Kenya has been a strategic gateway for trade in Africa, affirming that the Port of Mombasa is not only the busiest in Africa but also the heartbeat of the East and Central Africa economies.
“It facilitates the movement of goods, driving economic growth and creating opportunities for millions. As global trade evolves, so must the people who sustain it,” said the Ag. MD.
The programme is an investment in the country’s future maritime trade, which depends on a highly skilled and competitive workforce, he added.
Bunting explained that shipping and logistics formed the backbone of the global commerce future and Kenya is uniquely positioned to play a greater role in the sector than it does today.
“To realise this potential, we must develop world-class talent. We need to ensure that young and ambitious Kenyans are exposed to the skills, experiences and certification needed to compete on the international stage,” he stated.
“Maersk is deeply embedded in the region’s logistics and shipping industries. We recognise our success is tied to the strength of the workforce we help to build. That is why today we are proud to be sponsoring these ten cadets,” he added.
The MD urged the cadets to be disciplined to open more doors for other young Kenyans, seek knowledge, and be determined.
KPA MD Capt. William Ruto encouraged other shipping lines to emulate Maersk’s initiative to provide sea time to students, saying this has been lacking in the country. He hailed the collaboration with the shipping line.
“The cadets that will be trained will be officers of the ship. As we put the anchor down ourselves, we will have somebody who will pick up from where we left,” said Capt. Ruto.
He added that the year-long training for the cadets aboard Maersk vessels was an affirmation of Kenya’s growing reputation as a source of skilled labour for the maritime industry.
“Their effort comes at a crucial time when our seafarers face challenges in securing shipping opportunities necessary to get sea time that is required for their certification,” said Capt. Ruto.
He advised the Cadets to embrace the training with a positive mindset, as it required discipline and diligence for them to emerge as qualified professionals in their chosen career fields.
Capt. Ruto reiterated the Authority’s commitment to sustaining the Port’s performance through the procurement of equipment and support of the capacity expansion programme.
“We firmly believe by investing in skilled human capital, we are investing in a prosperous future,” he asserted.
On his part, Mombasa Governor Abdulswamad Nassir urged Maersk to increase the number of cadets in the next cohort. He further promised to support the education of youths in the maritime sector.
“Please do make Mombasa and Kenya proud. You’re going to be the face of those who are going to be absorbed,” he advised the Cadets.
Governor Nassir also revealed that plans were at an advanced stage for the establishment of a facility to handle hazardous waste from vessels.
By Sadik Hassan and Mgeni Kujeza