Kenya Demonstrates Capacity and Expertise in Marine Environmental Protection

By Harrison Kivisu & Victoria Tuva

Email, thecoastnewspaper@gmail.com

Kenya has demonstrated its expertise and capacity in marine environmental protection through a successful simulated oil spill containment exercise held off its coast on Wednesday, July 9, 2025.

The exercise, observed by international experts, showcased the country’s readiness and resource capacity in responding to marine pollution incidents.

The day-long drill, conducted approximately eight nautical miles off the Kenyan coast, was a testament to the country’s commitment to protecting its marine environment.

Engineers, security personnel from the Kenya Navy, and marine experts worked together seamlessly, demonstrating their prowess in responding to marine emergencies.

The exercise tested Kenya’s ability to respond to marine pollution and search and rescue incidents, even in challenging conditions.

The simulated oil spill containment exercise involved the use of floating booms and skimmers, search and rescue operations, and reinforced Kenya’s ability to activate its National Oil Spill Contingency Plan (NOSCP) in line with the MARPOL Convention.

“This exercise reaffirms our commitment to maritime safety and environmental protection,” said Eng. Julius Koech, director for maritime safety from Kenya Maritime Authority (KMA).

Key agencies, including the Kenya Navy, Kenya Red Cross Society, Kenya Pipeline Company, and Kenya Ports Authority (KPA), came together to demonstrate their commitment to marine environmental protection.

KPA played a crucial role in the exercise, deploying two tugboats, Mwokozi II and Duma II, along with containment booms.

The successful deployment of these resources ensured a well-coordination and effective response simulation.

The activity demonstrated Kenya’s growing capacity to respond to marine pollution incidents and its commitment to protecting the marine environment.

The country’s ability to activate its National Oil Spill Contingency Plan (NOSCP) in line with the MARPOL Convention is a significant step towards ensuring the protection of its marine ecosystem.

“Kenya Maritime Authority remains at the forefront of ensuring safe, secure, and environmentally sound shipping through collaboration, preparedness, and compliance with international obligations,” Eng Koech added.

The successful exercise is a testament to Kenya’s dedication to maritime safety and environmental protection.

The country’s collaboration with international partners and its commitment to implementing best practices in marine environmental protection are commendable.

As Kenya continues to work towards protecting its marine environment, the country is setting an example for other nations to follow.

The successful exercise is a demonstration of Kenya’s capacity to respond to marine pollution incidents and its commitment to preserving the beauty and biodiversity of its marine ecosystem.

The KMA, through its firector for maritime safety, reaffirmed its commitment to ensuring safe, secure, and environmentally sound shipping through collaboration, preparedness, and compliance with international obligations.

The exercise is a significant milestone in Kenya’s efforts to protect its marine environment and demonstrates the country’s growing capacity to respond to marine pollution incidents.

As the country continues to work towards protecting its marine ecosystem, it is setting a precedent for other nations to follow.

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 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 underscores 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 is a testament to Kenya’s unwavering commitment to environmental stewardship and maritime safety.

The event is led by KMA in partnership with the – Indian Ocean Commission under the Safe Seas Africa project, with support from European Unionet UN Environment Programme & Nairobi Convention.