Mombasa: Kenya has launched a national Ocean Centre in Mombasa to foster coordinated efforts among stakeholders in ocean governance, safety, and sustainable blue economy development. The Ocean Centre Kenya, established under the UN Global Compact Network in partnership with Lloyd's Register Foundation, becomes one of the only seven such centres globally.
According to Kenya News Agency, the initiative seeks to address issues such as marine accidents, safety in small-scale fisheries, offshore renewable energy standards, and ocean-based livelihoods through a multi-stakeholder approach. Speaking during the launch at English Point Marina, Mombasa Deputy Governor Francis Thoya said the Centre offers a timely platform for dialogue and collective action on pressing maritime issues.
Thoya emphasized the importance of the ocean to local communities, citing its contribution to food security, employment, and national revenue. He noted that Kenyans who rely on the ocean, such as fishers and port workers, stand to benefit from improved governance of marine resources. 'We must align our strategies to ensure that the ocean continues to support livelihoods sustainably. This platform is key to bringing everyone to the table for deeper conversations and evidence-based action,' he added.
Ambassador Nancy Karigithu, the special envoy and presidential advisor on maritime and blue economy, emphasized the need to break sectoral silos and promote innovation through collaborative research and inclusive participation. 'This is a big opportunity for us to synergize and speak with one voice. The blue economy affects many facets of our national structures, yet we often do not engage collectively,' said Karigithu.
She noted that the centre will be instrumental in preparing for Kenya's hosting of the 11th UN Ocean conference in 2026, allowing stakeholders to develop local solutions informed by science and community experience. Karigithu further called for deliberate engagement with coastal populations to unlock entrepreneurship and formal job opportunities within the maritime sector.
Judy Njino, Executive Director of the UN Global Compact Network Kenya, said the launch marked a critical step in building resilience and sustainable use of marine resources. She reiterated that Kenya's Ocean Centre would connect policymakers, academia, industry, and civil society to co-design ocean safety solutions that serve local needs while contributing to global environmental goals.
Stakeholders present included representatives from the Kenya Ports Authority (KPA), Kenya Maritime Authority (KMA), Kenya Marine and Fisheries Research Institute (KEMFRI), and community-based organizations from the coastal region.