Maersk, a global leader in integrated container logistics, and Kenya Ports Authority (KPA), have announced the launch of a comprehensive maritime training programme.
This initiative marks a significant milestone in Maersk’s commitment to developing Kenya’s maritime sector and supporting the country’s blue economy.
Present at the event was Mombasa governor Adbulswamad Shariff Nassir, representatives from Royal Danish Embassy in Nairobi, Bandari Maritime Academy, Shippers Council Eastern Africa and Kenya Ships Agents Association.
The programme will provide fully funded, 12-month sea-time training opportunities aboard Maersk vessels for 10 Kenyan cadets. This strategic investment creates an opportunity to overcome significant challenges faced in the maritime sector around practical sea-time experience for graduating cadets.
“At Maersk, we are dedicated to creating lasting value that extends beyond our commercial operations,” Maersk Kenya FO & Ag managing director Oliver Bunting said. “This 12-month programme covers the most essential part of the process for a cadet to embark on a professional career as a seafarer.”
“These cadets represent Kenya’s maritime ambitions, and we’re backing their dreams with real-world experience on the ships of one of the world’s largest ocean networks. This isn’t just about training – it’s about transforming lives, reshaping the future of Kenya’s maritime sector.”
This programme builds on the robust bilateral relationship between Kenya and Denmark, which was strengthened by a 2021 Memorandum of Understanding. It aligns with Kenya’s Vision 2030 goals for human resource development, as Maersk is dedicated to training and upskilling the existing workforce and supporting youth development by providing access to world-class industry knowledge for Kenyans.
Additionally, it is noteworthy that six out of the 10 cadets are female, enhancing the diversity, equity, and inclusion initiative, which is a cornerstone of Maersk’s social goals.
KPA has lauded the noble initiative by Maersk, to extend the training opportunity and build capacity of local seafarers in the country.
KPA managing director captain William Ruto noted that it has been difficult for seafarers to gain critical sea time training due to a challenge of local vessels to offer such training.
“We as the port operator are delighted with this new initiative that will benefit our young seafarer and at the same time promote the human capital which is critical for the development of the shipping and maritime sector in our country,” captain William Ruto said.
The cadets, selected through a rigorous screening process conducted by Maersk’s global fleet team, will receive comprehensive training that meets international standards, positioning them for employment opportunities within Maersk and the wider maritime industry.
The appointment of the cadets will be carried out after all necessary documentation is completed. During the programme, the cadets will have the opportunity to provide constructive feedback to their respective educational institutes, benefiting subsequent batches of students in Kenya.
This initiative demonstrates Maersk’s significant long-term commitment to Kenya and its focus on creating sustainable value through strategic public-private partnership in areas of mutual benefit including but not limited to education and human capital development investments.
