Four Kenyan Seafarers Deserted by Ship Owner in Oman

The Seafarers Union of Kenya (SUK) is urging the government to assist in repatriating four Kenyan seafarers who are stranded in Oman after being abandoned by their employer. The seafarers, including Salim Mwamba, Idd Abdurahman, Omar Mwalimu, and a cook named Tella Hamisi, are unable to return home as they have no money. They have been stuck on the ship, Mv Saharla, in Oman for one year and six months, with no wages for the last seven months.

SUK Secretary General Atie Swaleh Ramadan voiced concern for the crew’s situation, stating that they have been left to fend for themselves in deplorable conditions. The union has written to various government agencies seeking assistance for the stranded seafarers. Ramadan also highlighted the need for tighter regulations on seafarers’ recruitment agencies to prevent similar incidents in the future.

SUK is worried about the welfare of Kenyan seafarers working abroad, particularly those who are not members of the union. With over 5,000 seafarers working outside Kenya without SUK membership, there is a risk of rights violations and mistreatment by employers. Ramadan emphasized the importance of ensuring that Kenyan seafarers work in local shipping companies where their welfare is safeguarded.

Source .