President William Ruto’s administration has taken another significant step in expanding employment opportunities for Kenyan youth through a landmark agreement with Norwegian shipping firms that will see at least 1,000 Kenyan seafarers employed by 2030. The deal, signed during President Ruto’s visit to Norway, underscores the government’s commitment to creating jobs for Kenyans beyond the country’s borders as part of a broader labour mobility strategy aimed at addressing unemployment and enhancing economic opportunities.
The agreement comes at a time when Kenya continues to face challenges related to limited job opportunities, particularly for young people entering the labour market each year. Recognizing the need to diversify employment avenues, President Ruto has aggressively pursued bilateral partnerships and labour export agreements with countries across Europe, the Middle East, and other regions. The Norway agreement is another demonstration of the government’s determination to ensure Kenyan skills and talent gain access to global markets.
A major highlight of the deal is the commitment to secure employment for an initial group of 120 Kenyan seafarers before the end of this year. This immediate target signals the seriousness of the partnership and offers tangible opportunities for trained maritime professionals who have been seeking employment in the international shipping industry. The recruitment process is expected to provide life-changing opportunities for the successful candidates while paving the way for hundreds more in the coming years.
Bandari Maritime Academy (BMA) Chief Executive Officer Dr. Eric Katana welcomed the agreement, describing it as a transformative development for Kenya’s maritime sector. He noted that the partnership sends a strong signal to Kenyan youth about the vast opportunities available within the global maritime industry. According to Dr. Katana, the initiative has the potential to uplift livelihoods, increase household incomes, and contribute significantly to national economic growth through remittances and skills development.
Dr. Katana emphasized that the agreement is likely to increase demand for maritime education and professional certification in Kenya. He encouraged young people to explore careers in the maritime sector, noting that global shipping and maritime services continue to offer lucrative and sustainable career paths. As international demand for skilled seafarers grows, Kenya is positioning itself as a key supplier of qualified maritime professionals.
The Bandari Maritime Academy, which serves as a regional centre of excellence for maritime training, is prepared to support the implementation of the agreement by training the workforce required by Norwegian shipping companies and other international maritime employers. The institution boasts world-class facilities, including a Full Mission Bridge Simulator, Engine Room Simulator, Gantry Crane Cargo Simulator, and an Aquatic Centre, all designed to equip trainees with practical skills that meet international industry standards.
Beyond employment creation, the partnership is expected to strengthen bilateral relations between Kenya and Norway while enhancing cooperation in the maritime sector. The agreement will facilitate knowledge exchange, professional development, and greater participation of Kenyan seafarers in global shipping operations. It also aligns with Kenya’s ambitions of becoming a leading maritime hub in the region by developing a highly skilled workforce capable of competing internationally.
The Kenya-Norway seafarers agreement reflects President Ruto’s broader vision of leveraging international partnerships to create jobs and improve livelihoods for Kenyans. With 120 seafarers set to secure employment by the end of the year and a target of 1,000 jobs by 2030, the initiative offers hope to thousands of young Kenyans seeking meaningful employment. It stands as a testament to the government’s commitment to ensuring that Kenyan talent is connected to opportunities wherever they exist in the world.
