The government has announced plans to strengthen protections for Kenyan seafarers following the safe return of seven crew members who endured a difficult detention ordeal in international waters.
Cabinet Secretary for Mining, Blue Economy and Maritime Affairs Hassan Ali Joho described the reunion between the seafarers and their families as a moment of immense relief after months of uncertainty.
The seven seafarers had been detained in international waters in March this year, facing the prospect of decades in prison or hefty financial penalties before efforts by the government and maritime authorities secured their release and return home.
Speaking during the reunion, Joho said the government was committed to protecting the welfare, rights and professional interests of Kenyan seafarers working across the globe.
“Their journey home follows a harrowing ordeal that began in March this year, when they were detained in international waters and faced the prospect of decades in prison or heavy financial penalties,”Joho said in a statement.
While welcoming the crew members back home, the Cabinet Secretary announced that the government would further strengthen institutional safeguards to prevent similar incidents in the future.
Among the measures to be implemented are Seafarers’ Identity Documents (SIDs) and enhanced mutual recognition of competencies with regional and international partners. According to Joho, these initiatives will improve compliance with international maritime standards, facilitate the movement of Kenyan seafarers and mitigate risks associated with employment in international waters.
The reforms are expected to strengthen Kenya’s maritime sector while creating a safer working environment for seafarers pursuing opportunities in the global shipping industry.
Joho was accompanied by Omae Nyarandi and Eric Lewa during the reception of the returning seafarers.
The government says it will continue working with industry stakeholders and international partners to enhance maritime safety, safeguard the rights of Kenyan seafarers and unlock opportunities within the blue economy sector.
