The Kenya Maritime Authority (KMA) has warned shipping lines operating in Kenya that they will face sanctions if they fail to comply with new registration and licensing requirements under the Merchant Shipping Regulations.
In the notice on June 22, KMA stated that the regulations require all foreign shipping lines operating in Kenya to obtain the necessary Registration Certificate, while local shipping lines must secure an operating licence issued by the Authority.
“The Merchant Shipping (Maritime Transport Operators) Regulations, 2024 requires all foreign shipping lines operating in Kenya to obtain the requisite Registration Certificate and local shipping lines to obtain an operating Licence issued by the Authority,” said KMA
KMA Issues Seven-Day Compliance Notice to Shipping Lines Operating in Kenya
According to KMA, the move aims to ensure full compliance with the new maritime transport regulations governing the sector.
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The Authority warned that any shipping line found operating within Kenyan ports or engaging in maritime transport activities without a valid Registration Certificate or licence will face sanctions and enforcement measures as provided for under the regulations and other applicable laws.
“To ensure compliance with the Regulations, the Authority hereby notifies all maritime transport operators to comply with this mandatory requirement. Accordingly, any shipping line found operating within Kenyan ports or engaging in maritime transport operations without a valid Registration Certificate or licence, shall be subjected to the sanctions and enforcement measures prescribed under the Regulations and other applicable laws,” the authority stated.
KMA has further directed all affected operators to regularize their registration and licensing status within seven days from the date of the notice.
The directive is expected to affect both local and foreign shipping operators operating in Kenya’s maritime sector, particularly those using the country’s ports.
Failure to comply within the stipulated period could result in regulatory action by the Authority.
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About Kenya Maritime Authority
The Kenya Maritime Authority (KMA) is the State corporation responsible for regulating, coordinating and overseeing Kenya’s maritime sector.
Established under the Kenya Maritime Authority Act, the agency is mandated to ensure safe, secure and efficient shipping operations, enforce maritime laws and international conventions, and promote the development of the country’s maritime industry.
KMA oversees ship registration, licensing of maritime service providers, seafarer training and certification, and marine environmental protection.
It also works alongside other government bodies, such as the Kenya Ports Authority, the Kenya Coast Guard Service, and the Kenya Navy, to enhance maritime safety, security, and compliance within Kenya’s territorial waters and ports.
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