In the ever-shifting theatre of global trade, two major powers have made their moves–one with threats, the other with opportunity. As Africa faces looming tariffs from the United States, China has chosen a different approach: opening its doors to all 53 African nations with which it has diplomatic relations. Announced at a recent China-Africa cooperation…
Bandari Maritime Academy is Kenya’s premier training institution for maritime courses. PHOTO/UGC. By ANDREW MWANGURA [email protected] Kenya, a country blessed with over 500 kilometres of coastline and ambitious plans for a thriving blue economy, has long ignored the urgent need to reform its maritime education system. The recent unrest within our Maritime Education and Training…
Single-hull tankers are relics of an outdated and dangerous maritime technology. PHOTO/VistaCreate By ANDREW MWANGURA [email protected] Mombasa, East Africa’s busiest and largest port, plays a vital role in handling millions of tonnes of cargo each year. It serves as a crucial maritime gateway for Kenya and its landlocked neighbours. However, beneath its bustling activity lies…
A ship at Mombasa Port. PHOTO/FILE By ANDREW MWANGURA [email protected] The maritime industry, a cornerstone of global trade, is grappling with a looming crisis: an acute shortage of skilled seafarers. This challenge presents Africa with a unique opportunity to redefine its role in the global maritime workforce. However, the road to leadership demands a deliberate…
A tug-boat directing a cargo vessel to a berth at Mombasa Port. PHOTO/FILE By ANDREW MWANGURA [email protected] Kenya’s maritime potential remains largely untapped, despite the nation’s considerable strategic advantages and access to key international shipping routes. With only 25 merchant vessels registered under the Kenyan flag in 2020—out of 1,849 ship visits to Kenyan ports…
A fisherman holding a fish. PHOTO/UNSPLASH By ANDREW MWANGURA [email protected] In the golden era of post-independence Kenya, a bold maritime vision emerged from the waters of the Indian Ocean. The story of vessels FV Ujuzi, FV Uchumi, and FV Ufunguo represents more than just ships—they symbolize a nation’s aspirational leap into industrial fishing and maritime…
Bandari Maritime Academy is Kenya’s premier maritime training institution. PHOTO/UGC. By ANDREW MWANGURA [email protected] Kenya stands at a critical juncture in its maritime development, a moment ripe with potential yet fraught with challenges. The latest “Deep Dive on Seafarer Sustainability” report from the World Maritime University, commissioned by the Lloyd’s Register Foundation, sheds light on…
