(Mombasa) – Seafarers in Kenya have accused the Kenya Maritime Authority (KMA) of corruption, mismanagement, and discrimination, calling for reforms to improve accountability and fair resource allocation.
Speaking in Mombasa, veteran seafarer Hassan Kombo expressed frustration over the lack of transparency in the maritime industry. Kombo pointed out that while global opportunities for seafarers are plentiful, Kenyan seafarers often miss out on them due to what he described as poor leadership at KMA.
Kombo urged Cabinet Secretary for Blue Economy and Maritime Affairs, Hassan Joho, to visit Bandari Maritime Academy (BMA) to discuss these challenges. He highlighted concerns over the high cost of maritime courses in private colleges compared to the government-run academy, which he claimed has been undermined.
| Key Complaints Raised by Seafarers | Details |
|---|---|
| Lack of Transparency | Alleged corruption and mismanagement at KMA |
| Discrimination | Unfair allocation of resources among seafarers |
| Costly Training | High fees for maritime courses in private institutions |
| Leadership Issues | Dissatisfaction with current maritime sector leadership |
The Capital Youth Caucus Association (CYCA), a rights advocacy group, also criticized KMA, accusing it of abuse of office, corruption, and violating constitutional principles of good governance. CYCA Secretary General Evans Momanyi said the organization had received numerous complaints from seafarers, businesspeople, and suppliers who allege discrimination, extortion, and unethical practices by some senior officers.
Momanyi emphasized the importance of holding public officers accountable, urging government agencies to investigate the allegations. He warned that mismanagement in the blue economy sector deprives youth of opportunities for education and employment, pushing many into juvenile gangs.
The CYCA has taken a proactive approach by writing to relevant authorities, providing supporting documents to back the complaints. Momanyi called for the KMA Board of Directors to ensure transparency, integrity, and proper oversight in its operations.
| CYCA Allegations Against KMA | Examples |
|---|---|
| Corruption | Allegations of tendering irregularities |
| Discrimination | Claims of unfair practices in resource allocation |
| Abuse of Office | Extortion and unethical conduct by senior officers |
Momanyi reiterated that addressing corruption within KMA would unlock the potential of the blue economy, creating jobs and improving livelihoods for Kenyan youth. He urged public officials to prioritize effective use of funds to benefit the sector and ensure equitable opportunities for all.