Kenya, Tanzania Sign Agreement to Develop Maritime Transport Sector

By Mbungu Harrison

Email, thecoastnewspaper@gmail.com

Kenya and Tanzania have signed a landmark agreement aimed at strengthening cooperation in the maritime transport and shipping services.

The move is expected to unlock trade, create jobs, and enhance regional integration.

The agreement, signed through the Kenya Maritime Authority (KMA) and Tanzania’s shipping agencies, focuses on the development of the water transport sector, including the mutual recognition of maritime certificates and improved regulatory coordination of the two countries.

KMA director general CPA Omae Nyarandi participated in the signing of the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), which seeks to streamline standards and promote efficiency in maritime operations across the region.

The signing ceremony took place on May 4, 2026, at State House in Dar es Salaam, in the presence of Kenyan President Dr William Ruto and Tanzanian President Dr Samia Suluhu Hassan underscoring the high-level political goodwill backing the initiative.

The deal comes at a time when East African economies are increasingly looking to maritime transport as a critical enabler of trade, particularly along the Indian Ocean coastline and inland waterways.

“This agreement marks a significant step in enhancing cooperation between Kenya and Tanzania in the maritime sector,” said CPA Nyarandi.

Industry stakeholders say the agreement could reduce regulatory bottlenecks that have historically slowed cross-border maritime operations, while also improving safety and professional standards through harmonised certification.

“By signing this agreement, the two countries aim to improve efficiency in maritime passenger services, boost coastal trade, and stimulate economic growth across the East African region,” he added.

Beyond trade facilitation, the MoU is expected to open up employment opportunities for maritime professionals in both countries, as well as strengthen technical capacity through skills exchange and joint training initiatives.

Officials noted that the agreement will also deepen collaboration in key areas such as port development, maritime safety and security, and environmental protection, particularly in addressing pollution and sustainable use of ocean resources.

Analysts view the deal as part of a broader strategy by regional governments to tap into the blue economy, which remains largely underexploited despite its vast potential.

The maritime sector is a key pillar of economic transformation in the region. Strengthening partnerships such as this one is critical for unlocking its full potential

The agreement also signals a renewed push toward regional integration, aligning with ongoing efforts under the East African Community framework to harmonise policies and improve infrastructure connectivity.

For Tanzania, the deal reflects a commitment to building a sustainable and inclusive maritime sector, while for Kenya, it reinforces efforts to position itself as a regional logistics hub.

As implementation begins, attention will shift to how quickly the two countries can translate policy commitments into tangible outcomes, particularly in improving service delivery, lowering transport costs and attracting private sector investment.

If effectively executed, the agreement could mark a turning point for maritime transport in East Africa, setting the stage for increased trade flows and long-term economic growth.