By Dorothy Musyoka
The Ministry of Defence has reaffirmed its commitment to transforming Kenya into a regional and continental shipbuilding hub through strategic investments and capacity building at Kenya Shipyards Limited (KSL).
This was demonstrated during a ceremony at Kisumu Shipyard, where the Ministry of Defence officially handed over the newly constructed MV Uhuru II Ship to the Ministry of Roads and Transport.
The event, graced by Cabinet Secretary for Defence Hon. Soipan Tuya and Cabinet Secretary for Roads and Transport Hon. Davis Chirchir, marked a significant milestone in Kenya’s efforts to enhance its shipbuilding capabilities.
“The Ministry of Defence is committed to enhancing the capacity of Kenya Shipyards Limited, positioning Kenya as a regional and continental shipbuilding hub,” the Defence CS said.
Speaking at the handover ceremony, Defence Cabinet Secretary Hon.Tuya highlighted the strategic importance of the shipbuilding sector in boosting trade and commerce within the Lake Region and strengthening Kenya’s ties with neighboring countries.
“We remain focused on strengthening Kenya’s shipbuilding sector to reawaken the huge trade and commerce potential of the Lake Region as well as across our borders with our good neighbors, Uganda and Tanzania,” noted Hon.Soipan.
The development of MV Uhuru II, which was constructed at the Kisumu Shipyard by Kenya Shipyard Limited, represents a significant achievement in Kenya’s maritime industry.
The vessel’s construction was carried out in close partnership between the Ministry of Defence and other stakeholders, underscoring the government’s commitment to fostering a collaborative approach to national development.
The ceremony was attended by high-ranking officials including Principal Secretaries Dr. Patrick Mariru (Defence), Mohamed Daghar (Transport), and Hon. Juma Mukwana (Industry), Vice Chief of Defence Forces Lieutenant General John Omenda, Siaya Governor H.E. James Orengo, Kisumu Deputy Governor Dr. Mathew Owili, Members of Parliament, Service Commanders, and KSL Managing Director Major General Said Farah, among other senior officials.
The construction of MV Uhuru II aligns with Kenya’s broader strategic objectives of enhancing its shipbuilding capacity and positioning itself as a key player in regional maritime trade.