Why seafarers are unsung heroes in war on pandemic

Seafarers play a crucial role in shipping operations at sea. FILE PHOTO | NMG 

By MOHAMED AHMED
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By WACHIRA MWANGI
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Summary

• Seafarers have kept global trade alive despite the problems posed by the outbreak of the Coronavirus.
• According to the International Maritime Organization (IMO), seafarers have been on the frontline of the Covid-19 crisis which has led to difficult working conditions including; uncertainties and challenges on port access, re-supply, crew changeovers and repatriation.

The outbreak of coronavirus has greatly disrupted flow of goods across the globe. However, a cadre of players in shipping is braving the risks and challenges posed by the pandemic to ensure globe supply lines, especially for essential goods, are kept operational.

Among those working to maintain the flow of vital goods across the globe are seafarers.

During the Seafarers Day on June 25, Shipping and Maritime Principal Secretary Nancy Karigithu said this group of sea workers have kept global trade alive despite the problems posed by the outbreak of the Coronavirus.

This, she noted, include ensuring goods such as food, medicines and medical supplies reach different parts of the world.

“Many times we see stocks in our stores, cargo arriving at the port, fuel at the depots... the truth is that most of these goods come via the sea. We have men and women working hard to keep the global trade afloat,” said Ms Karigithu.

According to the International Maritime Organization (IMO), seafarers have been on the frontline of the Covid-19 crisis which has led to difficult working conditions including; uncertainties and challenges on port access, re-supply, crew changeovers and repatriation.

Ms Karigithu said despite their commitment, seafarers have however been forgotten and many are suffering mental depression as they are mostly away from home.

“There is no crew replacement, no shore-leave for the seafarers due to the Coronavirus pandemic and this is depressing and draining,” Ms Karigithu said.

KMA Director General George Nyamoko Okongo said the seafarers who are operating in various oceans amid the pandemic should be saluted for their sacrifice.

“I know some have been sailing for too long and as a result of the travel restrictions they are unable to disembark to get rest as it is required as per their various contracts, and others who cannot sign off to be with their families,” he told Shipping & Logistics in June.

“This is a big sacrifice. As an authority we acknowledge it is not easy to be at the sea for those prolonged periods of time, sailing and at the current sea state where the conditions are not that favourable. I know it is a big challenge on-board a ship taking into consideration social distancing is a must.”