The fight against maritime crimes has received a boost after a partnership between the US and Kenya’s coast guard under the Global Maritime Crime Programme, with Kenya receiving a ‘simulator’ to fight maritime crime.
According to Kevan Higgins of the International Narcotics and Law Enforcement Affairs at the US Embassy in Nairobi the programme will use Bandari Maritime Academy (BMA) in Mombasa, Kenya for the training.
Speaking at the official handing over and opening of the Visit, Board, Search & Seizure Simulator, commonly known as “Ship in a Box” at BMA, Mr Higgins said the facility will not only be used by Kenya but other EAC states to train in combating organised maritime crime.
The Head of Oceans and Blue Economy Office Gen. (Rtd.) Samson Mwathethe also added that the simulator will provide “enhanced training for the control of maritime crimes and drugs in Kenya’s waters.”
Failure to effectively search vessels for drugs and interdict crime in this sector has serious consequences on trade, security and social development in the entire region, said Gen (Rtd) Mwathethe.
The simulator is made of standard shipping containers assembled like the bridge of a merchant’s vessel, to provide near real-life experience for the Coast Guard and other law enforcement agencies to train on boarding procedures to inspect ships.
Principal Secretary of Maritime and Shipping Nancy Karigithu said maritime safety and security is vital and now they have a chance to get exposed and train with proper equipment.
Ms Karigithu further noted that the facility is the first in East Africa and will enhance the training in safety and security for the country and the region.
This facility bolsters maritime law enforcement in the Indian Ocean region by enhancing the region’s capability to disrupt and respond to maritime crime threats.