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.

The event was highlighted by an inspiring address from the Deputy Commandant HPSS Lieutenant Colonel Kaptuway, who encouraged the participants to take tree planting as a critical contribution to environmental protection. He emphasized the importance of such actions in building a resilient and sustainable future, urging the participants to carry the spirit of environmental stewardship beyond the training grounds.

The participants planted a variety of trees across the HPSS compound. The exercise served as a practical and symbolic gesture of commitment to environmental protection and sustainability. The participation of the attendees added a valuable dimension to the event, underscoring the interconnectedness of gender, peacebuilding, and environmental responsibility.

This session reinforced the core values of the Environmental Soldier Programme, promoting hands-on environmental action supported by strong leadership.

This engagement falls under the broader framework of the existing Bilateral Agreement between Kenya and Switzerland, and aims to further strengthen peace support training, institutional development, and efforts to promote regional stability.

Speaking during the ceremony, Brigadier Sitienei reiterated that: “This agreement is a testament to the strength and longevity of Kenya’s collaboration with the Government of Switzerland. It underscores our shared commitment to peace, learning, and the sustainable development of security institutions.”

Ambassador Giulietti also emphasized the importance of partnership, stating that: “Through this partnership, Switzerland reaffirms its dedication to supporting regional peace efforts and the important work being done at IPSTC. Together, we continue to invest in lasting solutions for peace and security in the region and beyond.

Present during the ceremony were Mr. Steve Tharakan, Deputy Head of Mission, IPSTC Colonel Plans and Programmes International Colonel Markus Schefer and Lieutenant Colonel Kelly Opiyo. Kenya and Switzerland share a longstanding relationship built on mutual respect and collaboration, particularly in peacekeeping, training, and diplomacy.