State unveils plan to grow blue economy
By Harrison.Kivisu, June 8, 2022The government is seeking to have more trained personnel in the multi-billion maritime sector in a bid to increase its contribution to economic growth.
Shipping and Maritime Principal Secretary Nancy Karigithu said the government will continue to support young people to undertake studies in the maritime sector to enable them to work at home and abroad.
Speaking while addressing the public service officers workshop in Mombasa on Monday, Karigithu said the maritime sector contributes to 10 per cent of revenue in the gross domestic product (GDP) hence the need for more focus on both budgetary and human resources.
“When you export labour the countries demand for the most trained,so for us training is key to ensure we produce top quality graduates on maritime affairs,” she said. The latest plan to encourage youth to undertake maritime training is partnering with few shipping lines who absorb youth to maritime jobs.
According to the PS this cannot be realised if those working in the sector are not trained to international standards set.
“We are creating a very strong pillar for the development of the blue economy and the maritime sector,” said Karigithu. Public Service chairman Anthony Muchiri said Kenya has made significant strides towards full realisation of the blue economy.