By Issa Hussein - Reporter
Kenya, 16 June 2026 - Kenya and the Republic of Korea have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on the Recognition of Certificates under the International Convention on Standards of Training, Certification and Watchkeeping for Seafarers (STCW), a move expected to expand employment opportunities for Kenyan maritime professionals.
Cabinet Secretary for Mining, Blue Economy and Maritime Affairs Hassan Joho witnessed the signing of the agreement, describing it as a significant milestone for Kenya's maritime sector and a major step towards strengthening bilateral cooperation between the two countries.
Joho said the agreement was the result of sustained engagement, consultations and collaboration between Kenya and South Korea, driven by mutual goodwill and a shared commitment to advancing maritime development.
“This has been a journey of sustained engagement, consultations and collaboration between our two countries. Through open dialogue and the goodwill demonstrated by both Kenya and South Korea, we have achieved this important milestone,” he said.
The STCW agreement will enable South Korea to recognize certificates issued to Kenyan seafarers, enhancing the international credibility of their qualifications and allowing them to access employment opportunities in the global shipping industry.
According to the Cabinet Secretary, the pact goes beyond diplomatic cooperation and has direct benefits for Kenyan maritime professionals.
“For Kenyan seafarers, this is more than just a signed document. It means greater recognition of their qualifications, more access to international opportunities, and ultimately more jobs,” Joho said.
The government has identified the blue economy as a key pillar for economic growth, job creation and youth empowerment. Joho noted that expanding opportunities for trained seafarers remains a priority as Kenya seeks to strengthen its position in the global maritime industry.
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He reiterated the government's commitment to creating pathways for young people to access maritime careers while ensuring the country's maritime workforce remains competitive internationally.
“Our commitment remains clear: creating pathways for our youth, strengthening Kenya’s position in the global maritime industry, and ensuring that the blue economy works for our people,” he said.
The agreement also underscores growing maritime cooperation between Kenya and South Korea, with both countries expected to deepen collaboration in maritime training, skills development and industry partnerships.
Industry stakeholders have welcomed the development, saying international recognition of Kenyan maritime certifications will enhance the country's reputation as a source of qualified seafarers and open new employment markets for graduates from local maritime training institutions.
The signing comes as Kenya continues to invest in maritime education and training as part of broader efforts to unlock the economic potential of the blue economy and create sustainable employment opportunities for its youth.