The government is considering the use of military escort vessels to protect Kenyan exports heading to the Middle East as the war disrupts key shipping routes.
In an interview with NTV, Industry Principal Secretary Juma Mukhwana stated that the government is seeking ways to offer security for cargo ships passing through high-risk zones.
“Several countries are already doing this; they are sending their navies to escort their ships. We are looking at similar measures for Kenya,” Mukhwana said.
He explained that one option is to consolidate shipments, where exporters group their cargo bound for hubs such as Jeddah. The government could then arrange secure transit under coordinated plans.
“We need to work with the Chamber. If they bring us the consignments, we can explore how to help them reach their destinations safely,” he added.
However, Mukhwana noted challenges remain. Kenya currently does not have a national shipping line, and high insurance costs make the plan complicated. “But with other countries escorting their ships, we should also be able to do that,” he said.
A second option under consideration is the use of a hybrid model whereby the military will escort the vessels to a secure location, for example, the Red Sea. From this point, the cargo can be shipped by air or through the use of freight services.
This would require the KDF Navy and the KMA to work together with other agencies to monitor the situation closely.
There have been concerns from exporters over the losses arising from the disruption. The Kenya National Chamber of Commerce and Industry stated that the export levels to the Gulf region have declined significantly. This has affected thousands of jobs.
Chamber President Eric Ruto stated that businesses are losing between KSh800 million and KSh1.2 billion each week.
The government’s consideration of military escorts is seen as a move to protect Kenya’s trade interests and secure the livelihoods of exporters and workers who depend on the Middle East market.
