Kenya is deepening its maritime partnership with Norway as part of efforts to advance its blue economy agenda, with a focus on attracting investment, expanding employment opportunities, and accelerating technology transfer across the maritime sector.

During meetings in Oslo with the Norwegian Shipowners' Association, Kenyan officials explored avenues for cooperation in shipping, fisheries, skills development, innovation, and maritime services, as the East African nation seeks to strengthen its position as a regional maritime hub.

Discussions also centered on the development of new shipping routes aimed at boosting trade, strengthening supply chain resilience, and improving connectivity between Kenya’s ports of Mombasa and Lamu and Norwegian ports. The two countries are additionally exploring opportunities to expand Kenya’s shipbuilding capacity and maritime infrastructure.

A key area of cooperation involves green shipping and ocean sustainability. Both sides examined potential partnerships in maritime decarbonization, including the development of green trade corridors between Kenya and Norway to support sustainable commerce, workforce development, and the transition to cleaner energy solutions.

The talks highlighted growing collaboration in the blue economy and fisheries sectors, areas seen as critical to Kenya’s long-term economic development strategy.

In a significant boost for employment, Wilhelmsen Ship Management and other Norwegian maritime companies have committed to hiring up to 1,000 Kenyan seafarers by 2030, including 120 by the end of 2026. The initiative is expected to create new career opportunities for Kenyan maritime professionals and strengthen workforce exchanges between the two countries.

The expanding partnership reflects Kenya’s broader efforts to leverage its strategic coastal position and maritime resources to drive economic growth, create jobs, and enhance regional trade connectivity.