Kenya unveils plan to protect the ocean from oil spillage and other forms of pollution
By Kiprono Keileb, December 12, 2025Kenya has taken a major step toward protecting its coastline and marine resources with the launch of the National Marine Spill Response Contingency Plan 2025, a framework aimed at improving the country’s preparedness and response to oil spills and other marine pollution incidents.
According to a statement released on X on Friday, December 12, 2025, KDF said the plan was unveiled on December 11, 2025, during a high-level maritime event held at the Pride Inn Paradise Beach Resort and Spa in Mombasa.
The ceremony brought together key players in maritime security, environmental protection, and shipping, underscoring the growing importance of safeguarding Kenya’s marine environment amid rising maritime activity in the Western Indian Ocean.
Kenya Navy personnel, led by the Deputy Commander Kenya Navy Fleet, Colonel Robert Birech, joined other maritime agencies during the launch, which also marked the cold wash phase of the Maritime Security and Pollution Response Exercise 2025.
The exercise is designed to test coordination, readiness, and response mechanisms among agencies tasked with handling marine pollution emergencies.
The National Marine Spill Response Contingency Plan 2025 was officially launched by the Principal Secretary in the State Department for Shipping and Maritime Affairs, Aden Millah. The plan is expected to provide clear guidelines on how Kenya responds to marine spills, ensuring faster action, better coordination, and reduced environmental damage.
In his remarks, Millah emphasised the importance of collective responsibility in protecting the ocean and coastal ecosystems that millions of Kenyans depend on for livelihoods, tourism, and food security.
“Participants should continue working together to protect the marine environment, safeguard natural resources and secure the long-term sustainability of Kenya’s marine sector for future generations,” Millah said.
Kenya Navy’s role in maritime
The Kenya Navy reiterated its role as a key pillar in maritime safety and environmental protection, especially in an ocean region that has seen increased shipping traffic, offshore activities, and security threats.
Colonel Birech said the Navy remains fully committed to supporting the contingency plan and strengthening maritime surveillance and response capabilities.
“Kenya Navy reaffirms its commitment to supporting the contingency plan and ensuring maritime domain awareness within the Western Indian Ocean,” he said.
The launch comes at a time when oil spills and marine pollution pose serious risks to coastal communities, coral reefs, fisheries, and tourism hubs along Kenya’s shoreline. Officials noted that a coordinated national plan is critical to minimising damage and ensuring accountability in the event of a spill.
The event was organised by the Kenya Maritime Authority in collaboration with the Norwegian Coastal Administration, reflecting