The Kenya Maritime Authority (KMA) has mandated that Kenyan seafarers can only be recruited through licensed agencies listed on its website. KMA Director General Justus Nyarandi emphasized that any unauthorized recruitment for local or foreign vessels is illegal and may lead to fines or imprisonment.
This directive aligns with Section 118 (3) of the Merchant Shipping Act, 2009, which requires a license from KMA for anyone engaging in the recruitment of Kenyan seafarers. Nyarandi also warned that licensed agents must not charge seafarers any fees for recruitment services and are required to submit monthly recruitment and embarkation reports to KMA.
KMA disclaims responsibility for seafarers who engage with unlicensed agents. The authority regulates the seafarer workforce in Kenya, providing resources such as a seafarers’ information hub and managing the issuance of the Kenyan Seafarer’s Identity Document (Kenyan SID). It also oversees the registration and licensing of Maritime Service Providers, ensuring compliance with the Merchant Shipping Act 2009 and relevant regulations.
