Mutua to lead delegation lobbying for Karigithu to lead IMO

Africa's bid to rise to the top of the International Maritime organisation-(IMO) was on Wednesday launched.

Kenya's special envoy for maritime and Blue economy Nancy Karigithu who is being fronted for the post made a passionate appeal urging the international community to support her bid.

"It is my hope that my candidature will find favor with you and that my election to the position of the secretary-general will make the organisation stronger for the future," Karigithu said.

If elected, she will be the first woman and an African to ascend to the position in the 70 years the organisation has existed.

"At a time there is an increasing call to empower more women to support and lead the maritime sector, I wish to act, lead, and be seen as a role model for millions of women aspiring to enter the maritime sector and make a difference," she submitted.

Enumerating her agenda, the ambassador said she seeks to restore multilateralism and consensus building within IMO and spearhead an equitable transition of decarbonization of the maritime industry through IMO Green House gas reduction initiatives.

She vowed to lead the organisation and member states in realising holistic solutions that affect the shipping industry.

"I will foster an environment that allows for an all-inclusive leadership approach through capacity building, technical cooperation, and partnerships to promote sustainable ocean governance and development in the global shipping industry," Karigithu said.

Elections for the powerful seat are slated for July 18 this year at its headquarters in London, UK.

Various ambassadors and high commissioners from some of the signatories attended the event at KICC.

Dean of diplomatic corps Beyene Russom said Kenya is in the best position to clinch the seat.

The organisation has 40 member states.

IMO is the UN's specialized agency created to promote safe, secure, environmentally sound, efficient, and sustainable shipping through cooperation.

Foreign Affairs Cabinet secretary Alfred Mutua said he will be a Kenyan delegation to various countries across the world to lobby for support.

"We are going to ensure that our presence is felt during that vote...we are going to continue to campaign for her because she is the best choice," he observed.

President William Ruto has already endorsed her for the job as well as the African Union.

“With experience spanning over 30 years in the maritime sector, Karigithu is an accomplished expert with a proven commitment to the cause of global maritime interests,” Ruto said on May 6 in a statement.