BY SHABAN MAKOKHA
March 5, 2026| Youth from Mumias West Constituency are set to access maritime and port-related training opportunities following talks between Bandari Maritime Academy (BMA) and area MP Johnson Naicca.
BMA Chief Executive Officer Dr Eric Katana engaged the lawmaker to explore collaboration in youth skills development, focusing on expanding access to maritime education for young people. The discussions also covered job opportunities for Kenyan seafarers and capacity building in maritime education and research.
The leaders emphasized equipping youth with relevant skills to enhance employability and promote sustainable livelihoods within the blue economy and maritime sector.
The training package includes sea-time training with Danica Crewing Specialists, international collaborations, and the Standards of Training, Certification and Watchkeeping (STCW) certificate—a mandatory, internationally recognized qualification required for personnel working on commercial ships, including merchant, oil and passenger vessels.
Dr Katana outlined BMA’s mandate in delivering internationally recognized maritime training and reaffirmed the Academy’s commitment to partnering with leaders and institutions to support national and regional human capital development. He noted the initiative is part of ongoing efforts to expand international partnerships in maritime education and training.
“These initiatives are designed to provide young people with skills for the global maritime industry and enhance sustainable livelihoods. We are partnering with Danica Crewing specialists to provide six-month sea-time training for cadets,” said Dr Katana.
According to the CEO, the partnership aligns with Kenya’s Blue Economy agenda and will boost employability for Mumias youth while reinforcing BMA’s position as a regional Center of Excellence in maritime training.
Mr Naicca expressed keen interest in exposing his constituents to specialized maritime and port-related training.
“This is a critical role of skills development in addressing unemployment. My goal was to understand the courses offered at BMA so I can sponsor and encourage youth from Mumias West to pursue maritime studies,” he said.
The MP urged young people to acquire the right skills to benefit from emerging opportunities along the Coastline. He confirmed his office will continue collaborating with BMA on community empowerment, career guidance, and scholarship initiatives for youth in Mumias West.