By John Ndegwa / BMA
Over 50 trainees have commenced a transformative maritime training journey at Bandari Maritime Academy (BMA) under the sponsorship of the Mvita National Government Constituencies Development Fund (NG-CDF).
The beneficiaries, drawn from diverse professional and technical backgrounds, are set to begin their Standards of Training, Certification and Watchkeeping (STCW) classes on Monday, 3rd August 2026. The programme aims to equip them with internationally recognized maritime safety and operational skills, enhancing their employability within the global shipping industry.
Speaking during the induction, BMA Partnership and Resource Mobilization Officer, Fatma Mzee, who represented Chief Executive Officer Dr. Eric Katana, lauded the initiative as a significant step towards empowering youth and strengthening Kenya’s maritime workforce. She emphasized the Academy’s commitment to delivering high-quality training aligned with international standards.
Mvita NG-CDF Chairman Ali Bafundi, representing Mvita Member of Parliament Hon. Mohammed Soud Machele, reaffirmed the constituency’s dedication to investing in skills development and creating opportunities for young people. He noted that the sponsorship reflects a strategic effort to tap into the vast potential of the Blue Economy.
Further remarks by the Mvita Constituency Education Committee Chairman, Swaleh Said, underscored the importance of technical training in addressing unemployment and building sustainable livelihoods among youth in the region.
One of the beneficiaries, Zuena Mwende, expressed her gratitude for the opportunity, noting that the training will significantly enhance her career in the hospitality sector, particularly in cruise ship services where STCW certification is a key requirement.
BMA Nautical Science Trainer Rashid Kaole assured the trainees of the Academy’s full support throughout the programme, encouraging them to remain disciplined and committed in order to successfully complete the training and take advantage of global maritime opportunities.
The STCW programme is a mandatory certification for seafarers worldwide, focusing on safety, survival, firefighting and first aid at sea. Through partnerships such as this, Bandari Maritime Academy continues to play a pivotal role in building competent maritime human resources in line with Kenya’s Blue Economy agenda.
