Mining, Blue
Economy and
Maritime Affairs
CS Hassan Joho/FILE
Kenya last week mounted a strong and persuasive campaign for reelection to the International Maritime Organization council under Category C.
Kenya hosted more than 300 delegates at a high-profile diplomatic reception at IMO headquarters in London.
The event, led by Cabinet Secretary for Mining, Blue Economy and Maritime Affairs Hassan Joho, brought together ambassadors, high commissioners, senior maritime officials and representatives from IMO member states.
Kenya is seeking support ahead of the crucial IMO council elections scheduled for Friday, November 28, when member states vote in new council representatives for the 2026–2027 term.
In his address, Joho presented an emphatic and wide-ranging case for Kenya’s continued role on the council, the IMO’s executive body mandated to oversee the organisation’s global maritime governance agenda.
He highlighted Kenya’s strategic position as a gateway to East and Central Africa, with the ports of Mombasa and Lamu serving more than 300 million people in the region.
“We are not just a port and coastal state; we are a pivotal maritime nexus on the western Indian Ocean,” Joho said.
He emphasised Kenya’s full adherence to global maritime regulations, noting that the country is party to all major IMO instruments and has domesticated key conventions relating to safety at sea, pollution prevention and the welfare of seafarers.
On maritime security, Joho cited Kenya’s active contribution to the Djibouti Code of Conduct, underscoring its role in stabilising a region once deeply affected by piracy.
On environmental stewardship, he reaffirmed Kenya’s strong commitment to the Blue Economy, describing the ocean as “a fragile ecosystem we are duty-bound to protect.”
Joho positioned Kenya as a consensus-builder able to articulate the needs of developing maritime nations, including African coastal states and Small Island Developing States (SIDS), particularly in areas of capacity development, technology transfer and equitable transition toward maritime decarbonisation.
He assured delegates of firm support for the campaign from President William Ruto’s administration.
“Our campaign is a promise of engagement, equity and excellence. Kenya is ready to shoulder its responsibilities on the global stage,” he said.
In his final appeal, Joho urged IMO member states to renew their confidence in Kenya.
Instant analysis
Kenya’s diplomatic push in London demonstrates a well-coordinated strategy to retain its position on the influential IMO Council. By emphasizing its regional maritime leadership, adherence to IMO regulations, and contribution to security and environmental sustainability, Kenya positioned itself as a credible and reliable partner.
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