Kenya : Kwale Stakeholders Weigh In on Maritime Policy to Unlock Investment Opportunities
The State Department for Shipping and Maritime Affairs Secretary Administration (SA) Fauzia Suleiman, represented the Principal Secretary Mr. Aden A. Millah at a public participation forum in Kwale County, where stakeholders were invited to provide input on the proposed Kenya Maritime Investment Policy and the Draft Incentive Regime for the Maritime Sector.
The forum, held at KWS Hall, brought together maritime industry players, local stakeholders and other interested parties to examine the proposed policy frameworks and identify measures that could make Kenya’s maritime sector more attractive to investors.
Speaking during the engagement, Ms. Suleiman highlighted the central role of public participation in shaping policies that respond to the needs and aspirations of citizens.
She observed that involving stakeholders in the policy making process is not only a constitutional requirement but also an important foundation for building policies that enjoy public confidence and support.
She noted that communities and industry players must have an opportunity to influence decisions that affect their economic interests, livelihoods and development prospects, adding that inclusive consultations strengthen transparency, accountability and collective ownership of government initiatives.
The deliberations offered participants a platform to present proposals, highlight potential challenges and suggest practical interventions that could strengthen the country’s maritime investment climate.
The proposed Kenya Maritime Investment Policy and Incentive Regime seek to establish a more supportive environment for investment, encourage private sector participation and unlock opportunities across the maritime value chain.
The State Department reaffirmed its commitment to incorporating stakeholder views into the policy development process, noting that public contributions will be instrumental in refining the proposed frameworks ahead of their finalisation.
The initiative is expected to contribute to the development of a competitive, resilient and investment-driven maritime sector, while positioning Kenya to maximize the economic opportunities presented by its strategic coastal location and maritime resources.
Source : State Department for Shipping and Maritime Affairs
