DNK International By Tobby Otum.
Kenya Maritime Authority (KMA) Director General Omae Nyarandi has defended Kenyan seafarers saying they are known worldwide for their hard work, resilience and excellence, including communication skills.
He argued that with the recently signed Memorandum of Undertaking relating to the mutual recognition of Seafarer’s STCW Certificates with their Singapore counterparts they now have greater career mobility across fleets registered under the Singaporean flag.
Omae said together now they can chart a new course for Kenya’s maritime sector, one that secures opportunities for their people.
He made the remarks during a forum to discuss Seafarers recruitment and Placement of Kenyan Seafarers held at KMA headquarters in Mombasa county.
The KMA Director General pointed out that the agreement provides immense benefits for Kenyan seafarers who can now use their Certificates of Competency to obtain Singapore endorsements.
He added that this connects them to one of the world’s most respected registries.
“Singapore, as a major global shipping hub, offers Kenyan seafarers’ access to better-paid and more secure jobs, while enhancing the credibility of Kenyan training and certification,” he said.
The KMA Boss said in his speech that recruitment and placement agencies in Kenya can expand their market reach, streamline processes and strengthen their reputation by association with Singapore’s high standard.
Omae maintained that maritime education and training institutions in Kenya will benefit from collaboration with Singaporean academies in training.
He said this include research and faculty exchange, ensuring continuous improvement aligned with global best practices.
[DNK-International@February 19,2026]
