Mombasa, Kenya – Bandari Maritime Academy (BMA) has reaffirmed its commitment to bridging the long-standing sea-time gap that has delayed the completion of studies for seafaring cadets in Kenya.
For years, students pursuing Marine Engineering and Nautical Science have faced challenges in meeting the mandatory 12 months of sea-time required for certification, largely due to the country’s lack of a dedicated training ship. As a result, the Academy has relied heavily on partnerships with international shipping companies to secure limited sea-time slots for its cadets.
In a major step toward addressing this challenge, Bandari Maritime Academy, in collaboration with the State Department for Shipping and Maritime Affairs and the Kenya Maritime Authority (KMA), has signed Memoranda of Understanding (MOUs) on the Recognition of Certificates of Competence under Regulation I/10 of the STCW Convention with several countries. These include the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, the Commonwealth of Dominica, the Republic of Palau, the Republic of Panama, and the Republic of Liberia.
Additionally, talks are at an advanced stage to finalize an MOU with Singapore on the Recognition and Endorsement of Certificates under the same STCW regulation. Once signed, the agreement is expected to significantly expand sea-time opportunities for Kenyan cadets serving on Singapore-flagged vessels.
According to the Academy, its database currently shows 120 cadets in need of mandatory sea-time. Of these, 43 cadets are presently serving onboard various vessels, while seven have already completed and signed off from their cadetship.
On Tuesday, the Academy flagged off 10 cadets who will begin their 12-month mandatory sea-time with Danica Shipping Company of Germany. Danica Shipping operates globally, with a presence in Hamburg, Cyprus, Ukraine, the Philippines, Indonesia, Georgia, India, and across the wider Indian Ocean region.
Speaking during the flag-off ceremony, Bandari Maritime Academy Chief Executive Officer Dr. Eric Katana thanked Cabinet Secretary for Mining, Blue Economy and Maritime Affairs, Hassan Ali Joho, for his deliberate efforts to support the Academy in securing more sea-time slots for cadets.
Dr. Katana noted that the initiative would help clear the backlog of cadets awaiting placement, enabling them to complete their studies and progress in their maritime careers.
“Next week, we will be signing an MOU with Singapore, which will allow our cadets to gain sea-time on vessels operating under the Singapore flag,” he said.
Danica Shipping CEO Henrik Jensen assured the Academy and the cadets of full support during their training period. He said discipline and hard work would be key, adding that some cadets could potentially be retained by the company after completing their sea-time.
“I have taken time to assess them, and I have no doubt they will make us proud,” said Jensen. “The issue of sea-time is not unique to Kenya; it is a global challenge. What the Academy and the Ministry are doing is commendable and will go a long way in ensuring students get the practical exposure they need.”
Dr. Katana urged the cadets to uphold discipline and demonstrate strong leadership skills, noting that these qualities are essential for success in the maritime profession. He also encouraged young Kenyans aspiring to become seafarers to enroll at Bandari Maritime Academy, emphasizing that the institution has both the academic and practical capacity, supported by growing international partnerships.
Speaking on behalf of the cadets, Engine Cadet Eng. Franklin Kagechu and Deck Cadet Marion Madza expressed gratitude to the Academy and the Ministry for securing the 10 sea-time slots.
“We are grateful for this opportunity and for the efforts made to reduce the backlog of cadets awaiting placement,” they said. “We will not disappoint the school or the country at large.”
The latest development marks a significant milestone in Kenya’s efforts to strengthen maritime training and enhance the global competitiveness of its seafarers.
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