Bandari Maritime Academy (BMA) has hosted a delegation from the Indian Ocean Commission (IOC) Port Security Programme to explore opportunities for collaboration in maritime security, navigation safety, professional training, and capacity building across Eastern Africa, Southern Africa, and the Indian Ocean (EA-SA-IO) region.
The delegation, led by IOC Port Security Programme Regional Coordinator Michele Stallone, was received by BMA Acting Deputy Director, Maritime Transport and Operations Training, Mr. Enock Okemwa, on behalf of BMA Chief Executive Officer, Dr. Eric Katana.
The visit allowed the delegation to familiarize itself with BMA’s mandate, facilities, and maritime training programmes, as well as identify areas for institutional collaboration.
During the engagement, participants highlighted the importance of strengthening institutional capacity and facilitating the exchange of expertise among maritime institutions in the region.
The engagement is expected to foster collaboration between the IOC Port Security Programme and Kenyan maritime institutions, particularly in the areas of port security, safety of navigation, maritime security training, and professional capacity development.
The delegation comprised Major (Rtd.) George Okongo, Head of the Technical Department at the State Department for Shipping and Maritime Affairs; Mr. Senteu Tutui, Assistant Director, Maritime Education and Training (MET), at the Kenya Maritime Authority; Mr. Mourad Ghorbel, Maritime and Port Security Expert at the International Maritime Organization (IMO); and Mr. William Azuh, Director and Consultant at UCK Integrated Consulting.
