Kenya: Kenya has officially launched its National Marine Spills Response Contingency Plan, a detailed framework aimed at bolstering the country’s readiness to tackle marine pollution incidents. This initiative is strategically designed to improve Kenya’s ability to effectively respond to oil and hydrocarbon spills within its territorial waters.
According to Kenya News Agency, during the launch event, Aden Millah, the Principal Secretary of the State Department for Shipping and Maritime Affairs, represented the Cabinet Secretary for Mining, Blue Economy, and Maritime Affairs, Hassan Joho. Millah described the plan as a significant milestone in protecting Kenya’s marine environment and ensuring the Blue Economy’s sustainability. Joho highlighted how the expansion of maritime activities, such as the development of the Port of Mombasa and other major ports, alongside the relocation of the Kipevu Oil Terminal, has increased maritime traffic, thereby raising the risk of oil spills.
The plan ensures Kenya’s compliance with the International Convention on Oil Pollution Preparedness, Response and Cooperation (1990). Under this framework, the Kenya Maritime Authority (KMA) is designated as the Competent Oil Spill Authority responsible for coordinating national response efforts. The plan also defines the roles of various actors and provides guidance on the use of techniques and resources during pollution emergencies.
Joho stressed the necessity of strong partnerships, emphasizing that effective oil spill management requires collaboration across government agencies and the private sector. He also praised the development of the Marine Spills Preparedness and Response Coordination Charter, which formalizes cooperation among key stakeholders. The recent MASEPOLREX 25 Regional Field Exercise, hosted by KMA, was highlighted as a crucial test of regional readiness for large-scale pollution events.
Preparedness is an ongoing effort, Joho noted, and must be supported through continuous training, joint drills, and coordinated planning. He expressed gratitude to Kenya’s partners, including the World Bank, Kenya Ports Authority, Kenya Navy, Oil Spill Mutual Aid Group, and the Kingdom of Norway, for their contributions to advancing Kenya’s marine pollution response capacity.
Joho concluded by urging continued collaboration to protect Kenya’s marine environment and ensure the maritime sector’s long-term sustainability.
