A.P. Moller – Maersk, a global leader in integrated container logistics, and Kenya Ports Authority, today announced the launch of a comprehensive maritime training programme. This initiative marks a significant milestone in Maersk’s commitment to developing Kenya’s maritime sector and supporting the country’s Blue Economy. Present at the event was HE. Adbulswamad Shariff Nassir, Governor, Mombasa County, representatives from Royal Danish Embassy in Nairobi, Bandari Maritime Academy, Shippers Council Eastern Africa and Kenya Ships Agents Association.
The programme will provide fully funded, 12-month sea-time training opportunities aboard Maersk vessels for 10 Kenyan cadets. This strategic investment creates an opportunity to overcome significant challenges faced in the maritime sector around practical sea-time experience for graduating cadets.
“At Maersk, we are dedicated to creating lasting value that extends beyond our commercial operations. This 12-month programme covers the most essential part of the process for a cadet to embark on a professional career as a seafarer,” said Oliver Bunting, CFO & Ag Managing Director at Maersk Kenya. “These cadets represent Kenya’s maritime ambitions, and we’re backing their dreams with real-world experience on the ships of one of the world’s largest ocean networks. This isn’t just about training – it’s about transforming lives, reshaping the future of Kenya’s maritime sector.”
This programme builds upon the strong bilateral relationship between Kenya and Denmark, reinforced by a 2021 Memorandum of Understanding, and aligns with Kenya’s Vision 2030 goals under Human resource development whereby Maersk remains committed to train and upskill the existing workforce and youth development by making world-class industry knowledge available to Kenyans Further, it is noteworthy that the six out of the ten cadets are females strengthening the Diversity, Equity & Inclusion drive that is one of the cornerstones for Maersk’s social goals.
Kenya Ports Authority has lauded the noble initiative by Maersk, to extend the training opportunity and build capacity of local seafarers in the country.
Managing Director Captain William Ruto noted that it has been difficult for seafarers to gain critical sea time training due to a challenge of local vessels to offer such training.
“We as the port operator are delighted with this new initiative that will benefit our young seafarer and at the same time promote the human capital which is critical for the development of the shipping and maritime sector in our country.”
The cadets, selected through a rigorous screening process conducted by Maersk’s global fleet team, will receive comprehensive training that meets international standards, positioning them for employment opportunities within Maersk and the wider maritime industry. The appointment of the cadets will be carried out after all necessary documentation is completed. During the programme, the cadets will have the opportunity to provide constructive feedback to their respective educational institutes, benefiting subsequent batches of students in Kenya.
This initiative demonstrates Maersk’s significant long-term commitment to Kenya and its focus on creating sustainable value through strategic public-private partnership in areas of mutual benefit including but not limited to education and human capital development investments.
