Future Marine Manufacturing to Support Blue Economy Growth in Kenya
Developing a maritime sector to meet current challenges.
Project leader
Dates
2019
Project staff
Dr Alan Murphy, Prof Richard Birmingham
Sponsors
British Council Newton Fund
Partners
Description
Blue economy activities include fishing, transport, aquaculture and offshore energy. Kenya aims to drive a rapid expansion of many of these activities. But, with a few exceptions, SMEs carry out most marine manufacturing to support this sector. These SMEs mainly consist of artisan boat builders and low technology engineering firms.
The workshop brought together:
- researchers from four UK maritime universities and two Kenyan universities
- key stakeholders from governmental and industrial sectors
The workshop format followed a brainstorming approach to enable discussions in groups on four broad themes.
Moving towards sustainable shipping
This theme focused on energy efficiency, reducing air pollution and the impacts on the Kenyan maritime sector.
Improving maritime safety
Kenya needs to meet challenges on inland waters, on inshore operations such as fishing, and on offshore safety.
Developing marine manufacturing, services and education
The workshop also considered the future potential maritime economy. This theme included the development of skills and innovation to support new economic growth.
Linking coastal communities to the maritime economy
A wide variety of maritime activities impact coastal communities. This is particularly the case for those away from current economic centres.