Kenya Ports Authority Commits to Protect Marine Environment

By Harrison Kivisu & Mwakwaya Raymond

Email, thecoastnewspaper@gmail.com

The Kenya Ports Authority (KPA) has reaffirmed its commitment to protecting the marine environment; a critical business component essential for regional trade and economic development.

Speaking at the official opening of the Regional Field Training Exercise on Marine Oil Pollution Response, MASEPOLREX25, KPA managing director Captain William Ruto emphasised the importance of maintaining the port’s position as a leader in maritime safety and environmental protection.

The training exercise, held at the Bandari Maritime Academy (BMA) in Mombasa, brings together international experts and stakeholders to enhance capacity to respond effectively to marine oil pollution incidents.

Capt Ruto said that KPA’s participation in the training exercise underscored the authority’s commitment to safeguarding the maritime environment and promoting regional stability and environmental sustainability.

The MD highlighted the strategic importance of MASEPOLREX25 saying it was a testament to Kenya’s unwavering commitment to environmental stewardship and maritime safety.

“By enhancing our preparedness and response capabilities, we are not only safeguarding our own maritime interests but also contributing to regional stability and environmental sustainability.”

The training exercise presents an opportunity to build institutional capacity across the KPA and partner agencies.

Capt Ruto said that strengthening skills, refining response strategies, and fostering collaboration would ensure that the authority was ready to act swiftly and effectively in the event of a marine oil pollution incident.

The exercise features over 50 distinguished international delegates, including experts from renowned organizations such as the International Tanker Owners Pollution Federation (ITOPF), Oil Spill Response Limited (OSRL), SMIT Salvage, and the International Oil Pollution Compensation (IOPC) Funds.

Blue Economy cabinet secretary Hassan Joho, represented by Kenya Navy Fleet base commander Brigadier Mohamed Shemote, emphasised the need for concrete action to enhance oil pollution preparedness and response in the region.

“Let us use this training exercise as a springboard for concrete action,” Joho said. “We must leave here with clear commitments, practical strategies, and renewed partnerships to enhance oil pollution preparedness and response in our region.”

The KPA’s commitment to protect the marine environment was a critical component of its business operations.

Through initiatives like MASEPOLREX25, the authority is working to enhance its preparedness and response capabilities, promote regional stability and environmental sustainability, and ensure the long-term sustainability of the maritime industry.

With its strategic location and commitment to environmental protection, the KPA is poised to remain a leader in maritime safety and environmental protection.