The findings were presented during a two-day stakeholders’ meeting currently underway at Argyle Hotel, bringing together representatives from the nine-member states of the Maritime Organization for Eastern, Southern, and Northern Africa (MOESNA), alongside regional bodies including the Port Management Association of Eastern and Southern Africa (PMAESA), Maritime Administrations, Port Authorities, and Maritime Training Institutions.
Speaking during the opening session, BMA Ag. Senior Deputy Director for Maritime Transport Operations Training, Enock Okemwa, noted that the assessment sought to identify gaps in coxswain training, certification, competency standards, and operational practices within coastal and inland waterway transport systems across member states.
He observed that the study revealed notable disparities in training standards, certification procedures, safety compliance, and operational competencies, highlighting the urgent need for a harmonized regional training framework.
BMA Assistant Director for Quality Assurance, Michael Njogah, who is also serving as co-consultant for Situational Analysis and Training Needs Assessment, emphasized that the proposed Regional Coxswain Training Curriculum aims to establish a standardized, competency-based training framework aligned with the evolving demands of the maritime sector.
He further noted that the curriculum will help address existing gaps in training and certification while enhancing safety, professionalism, and operational efficiency in coastal and inland waterway transport. Additionally, it is expected to improve the safe movement of people and goods, strengthen regional trade and connectivity, and support sustainable maritime transport systems across member states.
The initiative marks a major milestone in advancing regional cooperation and strengthening human capacity development within the maritime sector. The curriculum is also expected to contribute to safer waterways, improved transport services, enhanced trade facilitation, and the realization of blue economy objectives in the region.
Bandari Maritime Academy appreciates the MOESNA Member States and all stakeholders involved in the consultative process for their commitment and support toward the successful development and implementation of the Regional Coxswain Training Curriculum.
BMA remains committed to promoting maritime excellence through quality training, research, innovation, and regional collaboration, thereby fostering the sustainable growth of the maritime industry.
