Mining, Blue Economy, and Maritime Affairs CS Salim Mvurya has called for regional cooperation in harnessing maritime resources.
The CS stressed that the journey towards a sustainable maritime future is a collective endeavour
"Achieving a sustainable maritime future requires unprecedented regional cooperation and innovation," Mvurya said.
"We must work together, leveraging our collective expertise, resources, and technological advancements."
He was speaking at the 3rd Meeting of Ministers Responsible for Shipping and Maritime Affairs of the Eastern, Southern, and Northern Africa (ESNA) region.
The event, held in Nairobi was themed 'Charting the Course Together for Sustainable Shipping and Economic Prosperity'.
Mvurya highlighted Kenya's honour in hosting the assembly, which saw the Intergovernmental Standing Committee on Shipping (ISCOS) rebranded as the Maritime Organization for Eastern, Southern, and Northern Africa (MOESNA).
"By coming together as MOESNA, embracing sustainable practices, and investing in innovative technologies, we can ensure the health of our oceans and the prosperity of our maritime industry,” he said.
Present at the meeting included MOESNA secretary general Daniel Mwanza Kiange and Zambia's Minister for Transport and Logistics Frank Museba Tayali, the incoming chair of the organisation.
Also present were ministers from Uganda, Ethiopia, Eswatini, Seychelles, and Somalia.
Representatives from Tanzania, Malawi, Namibia, South Sudan, Botswana, Burundi, Comoros, Djibouti, and Mozambique were also present.
Mvurya underscored the crucial role of shipping in global trade, noting its impact on over 90 per cent of the world’s commerce.
He also addressed the industry's environmental challenges, including greenhouse gas emissions and marine pollution.
"Our oceans are under threat," he stated. "It is our collective responsibility to safeguard them for future generations."
