Hellenic Register of Shipping announces the successful completion of the provision of consultancy to Kenya Maritime Authority, aiming at the identification of possible interventions to unlock the commercial potential of Kenya’s inland waters.

The tender was awarded to HRS’s subsidiary, HRS East Africa, having established offices in Nairobi and Mombasa, in July 2016. Our partner in this project was the Hellenic Institute of Transport / Center for Research and Technology Hellas (HIT/CERTH). The study was carried out within a period of 3.5 months, from September to mid December 2016. Working in close collaboration, HRS and HIT provided KMA with an integrated consultancy plan consisting of a full set of proposals, with emphasis on practical measures and recommendations.

Amongst the project’s milestones, it involved desktop research, collection of data through application of predesigned questionnaires, and field surveys - observations. More than thirty stakeholders associated with the multi modal ecosystem were involved in the abovementioned procedure e.g. shipping lines, transport operators, public authorities, tourist agents, local associations and cooperatives. Group meetings and interviews took place at the cities of Mombasa, Kisumu, Homa Bay, Lodwar and Marsabit during October 2016.

The research and consultation came up with practical recommendations for the improvement of transport systems providing guidance for the short and long term initiatives that could improve on the one hand the infrastructural supply and on the other hand stimulate the emerging transportation demand, spurring thus a cycle of enhanced economic activity and socioeconomic development. Emphasis was given on fast track proposals towards the development of multi-modal transport and more specifically maritime transport to fully exploit the potential for cross border maritime transport of passenger and goods.

Based on HRS experience and understanding of maritime safety and security regulations, the in depth examination of the Kenya legislative framework identified possible improvements that could be used to fill the existing regulatory gaps. The proposed legislative framework amendments ensure the safety and security of the human life and property during maritime activities in Kenyan inland waters.

Key study results were presented during the validation workshop, 8th December 2016, regarding the adoption of the outcome of the study and recommended interventions by KMA. The workshop took place at Kisumu providing stimulus and an opportunity for further consideration among the stakeholders.

hrsorg.gr