MOMBASA, Kenya — Kenya’s maritime sector is set for a major compliance shift after the International Maritime Organisation (IMO) announced that sexual harassment awareness training will become mandatory for all seafarers beginning January 1, 2026.
The requirement, introduced under the revised Standards of Training, Certification and Watchkeeping for Seafarers (STCW) convention, specifically expands the Personal Safety and Social Responsibilities (PSSR) module to include prevention and response to harassment at sea.
According to a statement by the Maritime Professionals’ Lobby, the measure is part of global efforts to enhance the safety and well-being of seafarers amid growing reports of workplace abuse in the maritime industry.
The lobby noted that training institutions and shipping companies must now integrate the new curriculum into all mandatory safety courses for certification.
“This marks a turning point in ensuring that all maritime professionals understand not only safety at sea but also the importance of mutual respect and dignity in the workplace,” said a representative of the lobby group. “No seafarer should ever feel unsafe or intimidated while serving on board.”
The Kenya Maritime Authority (KMA) and the Bandari Maritime Academy are expected to take the lead in implementing the new standards. KMA has indicated it will issue compliance guidelines to local institutions by mid-2025 to align Kenya’s training framework with the international requirements.
The move follows global pressure to address gender-based violence and harassment in the shipping industry, where isolation, long voyages, and limited oversight have historically made victims vulnerable.
A 2024 report by the International Chamber of Shipping highlighted that at least one in five women seafarers had experienced or witnessed sexual harassment while on duty.
Kenya’s maritime stakeholders have welcomed the decision, saying it will not only improve working conditions but also boost the country’s competitiveness in international labour markets.
“Seafarers trained under the new framework will carry an added layer of professionalism, making Kenyan maritime workers more attractive to global employers,” said Captain Thomas Ngala, a maritime safety consultant.
Training institutions will now be required to review their course outlines, train instructors on the new content, and establish mechanisms for monitoring compliance. Shipping firms operating from Kenyan ports will also have to ensure their crew meet the updated PSSR certification standards before deployment.
The mandatory training is expected to set a new precedent for safety and inclusion in maritime employment, reinforcing Kenya’s position as a responsible member of the global shipping community.
