RESEARCH AGENDA WORKSHOP

The maritime sector plays a pivotal role in Kenya’s economy, with over 90% of international trade being seaborne—valued at more than USD 3 billion annually. Kenya’s strategic ports in Mombasa and Lamu serve as critical gateways to the Eastern and Central African region, supporting a population of over 300 million people. This expansive sector includes shipping, port operations, fisheries, maritime logistics, offshore resource exploration, and maritime security.

Despite its increasing importance, women remain significantly underrepresented in Kenya’s maritime industry. According to the Kenya Maritime Authority (KMA), women account for less than 10% of the maritime workforce, with even lower participation in seafaring and technical roles. Most women are concentrated in clerical, administrative, and hospitality-related roles within the port and shipping sectors. A gender audit conducted by the International Maritime Organization (IMO) and the Association of Women in the Maritime Sector in Eastern and Southern Africa (WOMESA) found that only 3% of seafarers in the region are women—and most are not engaged in operational or navigational roles.

The Chief Guest, UNDP Kenya Resident Representative, Ms. Madelena Monoja, commended IPSTC for organizing this timely workshop, noting its importance in addressing the underrepresentation of women and promote gender equality in maritime security sector. The workshop also serves as a key milestone in kickstarting project implementation toward inclusive and sustainable peace and security.

In her remark, Director IPSTC Brigadier Joyce Sitienei highlighted the importance of this research agenda, noting that it aims to bridge the gap between policy aspirations and real-world implementation. The agenda focuses on identifying barriers, exploring opportunities, and recommending strategic actions to empower women in the maritime security domain.

Colonel Catherine Lagat, Head of Research Department highlighted the importance of research in generating evidence - based knowledge to inform policy, training and curriculum development.

Today's event has brought together subject matter experts to collaboratively share their insights and contribute to the discussions on the topics presented.