THE establishment of the Seafarers Wage Council is a major step towards improving the welfare of seafarers and unlocking greater opportunities in the maritime industry, Labour and Social Protection CS Alfred Mutua has said.
Mutua said the 13-member council, which is chaired by Mwinyi Jahazi, marks a turning point in efforts to address long-standing challenges faced by seafarers, including low wages, poor working conditions and limited access to social protection.
“This is a milestone in our continued efforts to enhance the working and living conditions of seafarers in Kenya. The maritime sector is integral to our nation’s economic growth and global competitiveness,” Mutua said.
He said the industry plays a critical role in facilitating trade and creating jobs, but emphasised that those at the heart of the sector — the seafarers — have not enjoyed the benefits they deserve.
“For far too long, seafarers have faced precarious employment conditions, low wages and inadequate welfare. We are now changing that,” the CS said.
He spoke at the council’s inauguration at Silver Palm Resort in Kilifi county.
Mutua said quality training for seafarers must include hands-on experience, noting the lack of a dedicated training vessel in Kenya as a major gap.
He urged shipowners to provide free practical training slots to maritime students to prepare them for employment.
“Training is not complete without real experience. We must prepare our young people to succeed,” he said.
The CS also committed to supporting job seekers in obtaining the mandatory Seafarers Identification Document, which is a key requirement for employment in the international maritime sector.
The newly formed council is expected to lead discussions on fair and competitive wages, improved working conditions, access to medical care and enforcement of seafarers’ rights.
“Seafarers deserve fair salaries — not only to uplift their lives but also to ensure the growth of the industry remains sustainable for employers,” Mutua said.
There are many opportunities in the maritime sector which are well-paying and career-enhancing.
The CS also pledged to strengthen institutions supporting maritime training and employment.
Mutua thanked the International Labour Organization, International Transport Workers Federation, trade unions, employer associations and other industry players for their support.
“Together, we will build a strong, fair and sustainable maritime sector for our seafarers,” he said.
