Kenya, Norway Explore New Frontiers in Maritime and Blue Economy Cooperation

The Principal Secretary, State Department for Shipping and Maritime Affairs, Aden A. Millah, has led engagements in Norway focused on strengthening cooperation in maritime skills development, green shipping, marine research and sustainable blue economy development.

During a courtesy call on Bergen Mayor Marit Warncke, the PS explored opportunities for collaboration in maritime research, innovation and sustainable blue economy development, noting the value of Norway’s maritime expertise to Kenya’s ambition of building a globally competitive maritime sector.

At Corvus Energy, the delegation explored marine battery technology and its potential to support cleaner maritime transport. The discussions highlighted opportunities for Kenya to draw lessons from emerging technologies as it works with the Kenya Maritime Authority and Kenya Ports Authority to reduce emissions and promote environmentally sustainable maritime operations.

At the Western Norway University of Applied Sciences, the delegation discussed maritime education, research and innovation, with a focus on potential partnerships that can strengthen training and equip Kenyan youth with skills suited to the evolving global maritime industry.

The delegation also engaged the Institute of Marine Research on opportunities for scientific cooperation in sustainable fisheries, ocean research and marine resource management. The PS underscored the importance of stronger research partnerships in supporting evidence-based decision-making, protecting marine resources and sustaining the livelihoods of communities dependent on the ocean.

PS Millah said the engagements were part of Kenya’s broader efforts to transform its maritime potential into tangible opportunities for jobs, skills, investment, innovation and sustainable economic growth.

He noted that Kenya seeks partnerships that move beyond discussions to deliver practical outcomes, including skills for young people, cleaner maritime transport, stronger research capacity and increased participation in the global maritime economy.

The engagements reaffirmed Kenya’s commitment to building a competitive, innovative and sustainable maritime sector that creates opportunities while safeguarding the ocean for future generations.