Kenyan pledges skilled manpower as he eyes top world maritime job

Mr Juvenal Shiundu is Africa’s only nominee to vie for the powerful post of International Maritime Organisation secretary-general. PHOTO | www.staticflickr.com 

By Annie Njanja

Kenya’s candidate for the top International Maritime Organisation (IMO) post has promised to create a pool of manpower to grow the industry.

Juvenal Shiundu said his priority if he is elected IMO Secretary-General would be maritime education and training to stimulate growth in shipping and maritime sector.

The growth in the sector, he said, would promote development of the member states and world’s economy.

“The industry is facing a shortage of seafarers. Without a quality labour force, motivated, trained and skilled to the appropriate international standards, the shipping industry cannot survive,” said Mr Shiundu.

“As secretary-general, I will work with member states to address the shortage of qualified merchant navy officers, and continue to promote maritime education and training as a key contributor to a sustainable maritime transportation system.”

He says key amongst his goals will also be "promoting the concept of the Blue Economy and greener shipping."

Mr Shiundu, a Naval architect, was named by the United Nation’s agency as the continent’s only nominee among the six candidates vying for the powerful post.

He has worked with IMO for over 17 years.