By John Ndegwa / BMA
Bandari Maritime Academy (BMA) has officially welcomed back two of its cadets who have successfully completed seven months of intensive sea-time training aboard a CMA CGM vessel, reaffirming the Academy’s commitment to producing highly skilled and globally competitive maritime professionals.
The cadets Engine Cadet Michael Nzioka and Deck Cadet Brown Ondego were received at the Academy by the Deputy Director, Maritime Education and Training, Chief Engineer Titus Kilonzi, who conveyed warm congratulations on behalf of the BMA Chief Executive Officer, Dr. Eric Katana.
The cadets undertook their practical training aboard the CMA CGM NILE, a Malta-flagged container vessel operated by the global shipping leader CMA CGM Group, where they were immersed in real-world ship operations, strict international safety standards, and professional shipboard discipline.
Chief Eng. Kilonzi praised their dedication, resilience, and professionalism, noting that international sea-time training remains a core pillar of BMA’s training framework.
Sharing his experience, Deck Cadet Brown Ondego highlighted the broad scope of skills acquired during the training period.
“During my cadetship onboard CMA CGM NILE, I gained hands-on experience in navigation, cargo handling, drills, and safety procedures, which form a core part of CMA CGM’s main safety vision. I worked alongside experienced officers and ratings while learning about international maritime regulations, emergency response protocols, and vessel management. The seven-month sea-time training program strengthened my teamwork, communication, and problem-solving skills, preparing me to become a competent officer and build a successful career in the maritime industry,” Ondego narrated.
On his part, Engine Cadet Michael Nzioka described his experience as transformative, particularly in shaping his professional mindset and technical competence.
“During my sea-time training onboard CMA CGM NILE, I successfully completed my cadetship program under CMA CGM sponsorship, acquiring advanced skills in the role of a senior engine cadet. My experience was defined by a ‘Safety First’ mindset, where technical competence and proactive risk management are inseparable. I transitioned from being a student to becoming a reliable ‘nearly-officer,’ actively contributing to the ship’s Safety Management System (SMS), safety compliance under the CMA CGM safety culture, vigilant watchkeeping, and technical integration. I look forward to serving as a competent officer and motivating upcoming young seafarers in the maritime industry,” Nzioka said.
The cadets noted that the exposure strengthened their confidence, professionalism, and readiness to meet the demands of the international maritime sector.
