By Tom Mwambanga
Mombasa, Kenya - In a momentous celebration of World Maritime Day, the Kenya Maritime Authority (KMA) marked the 50th anniversary of the adoption of the International Convention for the Prevention of Pollution from Ships (MARPOL) by the International Maritime Organization (IMO). The event, held under the theme "MARPOL at 50," took place at Mbaraki Wharf in Mombasa, Kenya.
MARPOL, which was adopted by the IMO on November 2, 1973, has played a pivotal role in minimizing and preventing pollution from ships, both accidental and arising from daily operations. This historic milestone highlights five decades of progress in protecting our oceans and ensuring the sustainability of the maritime sector.
Guests included Shadrack Mwadime, the Principal Secretary of the State Department of Shipping and Maritime Affairs, gathered to commemorate this significant occasion. Mr. Mwadime emphasized the potential of Kenya's maritime resources to bolster the economy and empower the youth. He encouraged young individuals to pursue maritime-related courses to capitalize on the opportunities presented by the burgeoning blue economy.
PS Shadreck Mwadime addressing the public at the event which was held at the Mbaraki Wharf. Photo: KMA
Four KMA candidates were fortunate to secure attachment opportunities aboard the MV Logos Hope, providing them with invaluable seafaring experience. The Principal Secretary expressed his gratitude to MV Logos for their support and presented a generous $300,000 cheque to ensure the well-being of these cadets. He also called upon other vessels docking at Mombasa Port to follow suit and offer sea time opportunities to maritime graduates, enhancing their credentials for the global job market.
As MARPOL commemorates its 50th anniversary, Captain David Muli, representing the IMO Secretary-General, celebrated the convention's success in promoting the safe and environmentally sustainable transportation of goods. Over the years, MARPOL's rules and regulations have evolved to keep pace with changing technologies and climate change concerns, contributing to safer ship designs and operations. Notably, marine oil spills have decreased by 9% since the adoption of MARPOL. Captain Muli urged maritime stakeholders to embrace decarbonization, digitalization, and innovative technologies in their quest to safeguard the marine environment.
Acting Managing Director of the Kenya Maritime Authority, John Omingo, reaffirmed the government's commitment to ensuring a safe marine environment. He emphasized the importance of compliance with MARPOL's regulations concerning waste materials, such as plastic and ship fuel. KMA inspectors diligently inspect all ships docking at the Port of Mombasa, detaining those that fail to comply with MARPOL regulations until they are deemed safe for sea travel, free from pollution risks.
KMA Chairman Hamisi Mwaguya addressing the media Photo: KMA
Chairman of KMA, Mr. Hamisi Mwaguya, echoed the call for maritime conservation. He praised the Kenya Kwanza government, led by President William Ruto, for their commitment to promoting the maritime and shipping sector. Mr. Mwaguya revealed KMA's collaboration with county governments in managing maritime waste. He called on the Mombasa County government to establish a licensing framework for waste sector operations at the port. He also unveiled KMA's plan to involve local groups in the production of affordable life jackets, part of a strategic effort to prepare for the projected El Nino rains expected between September and January next year.
The celebration of MARPOL's 50th anniversary serves as a reminder of this convention's vital role in safeguarding our marine environment and ensuring sustainable maritime practices. It is a testament to Kenya's commitment to a cleaner and greener maritime future while offering promising opportunities for its youth in the maritime sector