Kilifi: Labor Cabinet Secretary, Dr. Alfred Mutua, has urged the youth to embrace the maritime sector as a major employment avenue.

According to Kenya News Agency, Mutua spoke at an induction workshop for the Seafarers’ and Wages Council in Kilifi, highlighting various job opportunities in the maritime sector beyond fishing, such as cargo transportation and cruise ships. He mentioned the government’s effort to create Seafarers Identification Documents to allow seafarers to work internationally.

Mutua emphasized the importance of the Seafarers Identity Document (SID) in securing overseas employment in the maritime sector. He assured support for those without it to help unlock job opportunities abroad.

Addressing the challenges faced by seafarers, Mutua praised the groundwork laid for establishing the Seafarers’ Wages Council. He noted the need to improve employment conditions, wages, and social protection for seafarers.

He also highlighted the lack of dedicated training vessels as a significant challenge in seafarer training, urging ship owners to provide free practical training to ensure trainees acquire necessary skills.

The wages council’s role includes providing economic policy interventions and job creation by ensuring a regulated and attractive working environment. It aims to ensure fair wages, decent working conditions, enhance Kenya’s maritime competitiveness, protect seafarers’ rights, and promote social dialogue among stakeholders.

Mutua encouraged the council to adopt best practices from successful maritime nations and engage in capacity-building initiatives to equip members with governance skills and foster industrial harmony in the maritime sector.