Kenya Ports Authority (KPA) Managing Director William Ruto has refuted claims that the parastatal is facing a shortage of marine pilots, asserting that the authority has sufficient personnel to manage port operations efficiently.
Marine pilots play a crucial role in ensuring the safe navigation of ships within harbour limits, as well as during berthing and unberthing operations. Recent reports had suggested that KPA was struggling with a shortage, which could impact port efficiency. However, Ruto has dismissed these concerns, emphasizing that the ports in Mombasa and Lamu are adequately staffed.
Speaking on Friday after distributing foodstuffs worth Sh4.6 million to Muslim faithful in Mombasa and Lamu in the spirit of Ramadhan, Ruto reaffirmed KPA’s position. He highlighted that three new marine pilots, including Captain Elizabeth Marami—the country’s first-ever female captain—had been added to the workforce.
“Where I stand, there is no shortage of pilots,” Ruto stated. “It is only yesterday that we received the first lady captain in this country. She graduated recently and now she is a pilot.”
Further reinforcing KPA’s commitment to maintaining an efficient workforce, Ruto revealed that 26 marine pilots and engineers are currently undergoing advanced training in the UK. This includes 15 marine pilots and 11 marine engineers, with three pilots, including Marami, having already completed their studies and returned to Kenya. The remaining 12 are expected to join operations at Mombasa and Lamu ports upon completion of their training.
“When they come, some will be permanently stationed in Lamu. This means pilots will not be sent from Mombasa to Lamu when ships arrive at the Lamu port as has been happening,” a source at the Mombasa port disclosed.
Maritime expert Andrew Mwangura praised the initiative, noting that the investment in human capital will enhance long-term operational sustainability. He acknowledged the challenge in training master mariners, given the rigorous 12-year process and associated costs, but said recent efforts indicate a promising future for Kenya’s maritime sector.
With these developments, KPA remains confident in its ability to maintain efficiency and safety across its ports, reinforcing its role as a key player in regional maritime operations.
