The government is in the process of providing funding to boost the operations of the Kenya Coast Guard Services, MPs have said.
The unit is understaffed, lacks the necessary equipment and runs on a thin budget.
The Parliamentary Committee on National Security and Administration Friday toured the newly formed unit. They concluded that the KCGS officers need more advanced machinery such as aircraft and more patrol boats.
The committee chair Paul Koinange said they will ensure the unit, has enough personnel and is equipped to international standards.
He said plans are at an advanced stage by the government to ensure the coast is well resourced.
“These are some of the equipment we expect to have in the near future so that the new organisation works efficiently to secure the coastline,” he said.
Speaking to the media at English Point Hotel after touring the KCGS facility at Ganjoni, Koinage said the coast guards will deal with illegal fishing, contrabands, drugs, and human trafficking along the Kenyan waters.
The core mandate of the KCGS management is to ensure the coastal line is secure.
Last week, President Uhuru Kenyatta gazetted Brigadier Vincent Naisho Loonena as the first Director General of the KCGS.
Loonena, was a KDF officer for over 20-years.
