Kenya has reinforced its capacity to assess and manage maritime security risks following a national workshop in Mombasa, Kenya (24–28 November 2025).
The five-day training brought together 22 participants from key maritime and security agencies* and representatives from the private sector. Participants received practical guidance on:
- conducting structured risk assessments for port security threats;
- developing and implementing mitigation measures;
- establishing and maintaining Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for alert level management;
- responding effectively to maritime security incidents; and
- ensuring rapid recovery and restoration of port operations.
Through presentations, group exercises and scenario-based discussions, the workshop aimed to strengthen coordination among national authorities and ensure a unified, whole-of-government approach to maritime security.
By strengthening national expertise and institutional capacity, this initiative supports safer, more secure, and more sustainable transport across the region.
Officiating the opening on behalf of Principal Secretary Aden Abdi Millah, Major (Rtd.) George Okongo, Head of Marine Casualty Investigations and Security, reaffirmed the Government’s commitment to strengthening maritime governance in line with international standards. He said: “The ability to identify vulnerabilities, evaluate potential impacts, and put in place clear and seamless operating procedures is what ensures the sustainability and integrity of our maritime industry.”
IMO commended Kenya’s role as host of the Regional Maritime Rescue Coordination Centre (RMRCC), describing it as a pivotal institution for regional safety and emergency response.
Organized by IMO under the EU-funded Port Security and Safety of Navigation Project in Eastern and Southern Africa and the Indian Ocean, the training supported national efforts to strengthen port security in line with the International Ship and Port Facility Security (ISPS Code) and related IMO instruments.
The Port Security project covers nine participating countries and aims to reinforce national and regional maritime security frameworks in alignment with the 2050 Africa’s Integrated Maritime Strategy (2050 AIM Strategy).
*Agencies involved include: the State Department for Shipping and Maritime Affairs, Kenya Navy, National Intelligence Service, Kenya Maritime Authority, Kenya Coast Guard Service, Kenya Ports Authority and Kenya Revenue Authority.
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