Kenya and Norway are strengthening cooperation in the maritime and blue economy sectors, with a focus on investment, skills development, technology transfer, job creation, and sustainable shipping solutions.
Speaking during a State Visit to Europe, President William Ruto said Kenya is advancing its maritime and blue economy agenda through strategic partnerships with Norway, one of the world’s leading maritime nations.
The President revealed that discussions with Norwegian stakeholders are exploring opportunities for investment, knowledge exchange, and enhanced collaboration across the maritime economy, including expanding employment opportunities for Kenyan maritime professionals and seafarers within established Norwegian shipping companies.
“We are advancing Kenya’s maritime and blue economy agenda through cooperation with Norway, exploring opportunities for investment, knowledge exchange, skills development, technology transfer, and job creation,” President Ruto said.
As part of the engagement, President Ruto met with the Norwegian Shipowners’ Association in Oslo, where discussions focused on strengthening cooperation in the blue economy, fisheries, green shipping, ocean sustainability, and decarbonisation initiatives.
The talks also explored the development of green trade corridors between Kenya and Norway aimed at supporting trade, accelerating the energy transition, and enhancing skills development within the maritime sector.
Additionally, Kenya is seeking to establish new shipping routes to improve trade efficiency, strengthen supply chain resilience, and enhance connectivity between the Ports of Mombasa and Lamu and Norwegian ports. The initiative is expected to boost international trade while supporting Kenya’s ambitions to expand its shipbuilding capacity.
In a major boost for employment in the maritime sector, President Ruto welcomed a commitment by Wilhelmsen Ship Management and other Norwegian shipping firms to employ 1,000 Kenyan seafarers by 2030. Of these, 120 are expected to be recruited before the end of this year.
The commitment is expected to create new opportunities for Kenyan youth seeking careers in the global maritime industry while strengthening Kenya’s position as a key maritime hub in Africa.