Kenya Takes Bold Steps to Secure Position on Maritime Organisation Council: Here’s What You Need to Know

Kenya is on a mission. The country has kicked off its campaign to secure a seat on the International Maritime Organization (IMO) Council for the next term, 2026-2027. Cabinet Secretary for Mining and Blue Economy, Hassan Joho, led the announcement on September 12, 2025.

The campaign aims to garner international support as Kenya emphasizes its commitment to maritime safety, sustainability, and environmental protection. This bid also aims to amplify the voices of Africa and the Global South in maritime governance.

Ambassador Josephat Maikara, representing the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, reinforced the importance of Kenya’s re-election. He highlighted that this effort reflects Kenya’s leadership in fulfilling IMO initiatives and advocating for Africa’s maritime interests. “This is about advancing the aspirations of our entire region,” he said, emphasizing the role of the maritime sector in sustainable development.

Kenya’s focus areas include enhancing maritime safety and security, promoting conservation, and building capacities for developing nations. The country is positioning itself as a regional hub with significant investments in critical infrastructure like the Port of Mombasa and the Lamu Port-South Sudan-Ethiopia-Transport (LAPSSET) Corridor, along with the Bandari Maritime Academy.

In December 2023, Kenya successfully secured a seat in Category C of the IMO Council, which includes countries like Egypt, South Africa, and Singapore. However, it faced a setback in July 2023 when it lost the race for the IMO Secretary-General to Panama, a defeat attributed to the intricate dynamics of global maritime politics. Nancy Karigithu, Kenya’s candidate, was not elected, but the country has remained on the IMO Council since 2001, representing Eastern Africa and the Great Lakes region.

The upcoming election will take place during the 134th IMO Assembly session on December 3, 2025. If Kenya successfully retains its position, it will continue to play a vital role in overseeing the agency’s initiatives and operations, ensuring the nation remains influential in maritime issues.

Kenya’s commitment to building a sustainable blue economy is crucial. A recent report from the United Nations suggests that investing in maritime infrastructure can significantly boost economic opportunities, especially for developing coastal nations. It shows that a collaborative approach, leveraging regional strengths, is key to navigating the complex landscape of global maritime governance.

As Kenya presses forward with its campaign, it will be interesting to see how it engages with both regional partners and the broader international community to secure this vital position. The nation is not just aiming for a seat at the table; it seeks to be a leading voice in shaping future maritime policies that benefit all.



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Internationals Maritime OrganizationKenyas bid to lead IMO, 2026–2027 bidding, IMO Campaigns launched