In a significant move aimed at elevating the global competitiveness of Kenyan seafarers, Cabinet Secretary for Maritime Hassan Joho held strategic talks with Singapore’s Evergreen Marine Corporation to create opportunities for maritime cadets to gain essential sea-time experience.

The initiative is part of a broader effort to position Kenya as a maritime powerhouse in the region and beyond.

The meeting, held in Nairobi, focused on forging partnerships between Evergreen Marine, one of the world’s leading shipping companies, and Kenyan maritime training institutions, particularly the Bandari Maritime Academy.

The discussions were led by CS Joho and attended by Molly Mok, Chair of Evergreen Marine, alongside senior managers Mr. Solen Chuang and Mr. Jason Chang.

“Ensuring that Kenya-trained seafarers acquire the necessary exposure and experience to compete effectively on the global stage is one of our key objectives,” Joho said following the meeting.

 “Our cadets need quality sea time to meet international certification standards, and we are working to make that a reality.”

Sea-time missing link

Sea time refers to the period cadets spend aboard ships during their training, a prerequisite for acquiring international maritime certifications under the International Maritime Organization (IMO) standards. Despite having a growing number of qualified graduates from maritime institutions, Kenya has long struggled to place cadets on vessels due to limited opportunities with international shipping lines.

This has hindered the full professional integration of Kenyan cadets into the global maritime labor market, despite their training being on par with global standards. With Evergreen Marine’s interest, this could change.

“We see strong potential in Kenya’s maritime talent. We’re exploring how Evergreen can play a role in nurturing this talent while supporting the broader development of the region’s maritime sector,” Mok said.

Broadening maritime horizons

The talks didn’t stop at cadet placements. Other areas of collaboration were also explored, including shipbuilding, ship repair, and port infrastructure development. These sectors form the backbone of a strong maritime industry and are seen as critical areas of growth for Kenya.

Kenya’s maritime strategy has gained momentum in recent years, with increased investment in port modernization, training, and regulation. Mombasa Port, the country’s busiest maritime facility, has undergone major upgrades, and the government has been actively courting foreign investors to expand shipyard facilities and improve repair capabilities.

Experts argue that with its strategic position along key shipping lanes, Kenya is well-placed to become a regional maritime hub if it can align training, infrastructure, and policy.

Strategic collaboration benefits

This latest engagement with Evergreen Marine is part of a growing list of international collaborations spearheaded by the government to connect local maritime talent with global industry players.

Similar discussions have been held with other international shipping giants as the government works to ensure that training in institutions like Bandari Maritime Academy results in tangible employment outcomes.

Joho said for young Kenyans training to become seafarers, this could mark the beginning of more robust, structured, and impactful career pathways.

“We want our seafarers to sail not just in Kenyan waters but to be recognized on every ocean, every major shipping route. This is not just a goal; it’s a mission we’re committed to achieving,” Joho emphasized.