Kenya’s maritime industry plays a critical role in the country’s blue economy, and the demand for skilled professionals in this sector continues to grow. Several institutions across the country have been approved by the Kenya Maritime Authority (KMA) to offer marine and maritime courses, ensuring that Kenya remains competitive in the global maritime industry.
This article highlights the top maritime schools in Kenya, all of which are recognized for their contribution to maritime training and development.
1. Bandari Maritime Academy
Formerly known as Bandari College, Bandari Maritime Academy is one of the premier maritime training schools in Kenya. It offers academic and vocational skills to support the sustainable growth of the blue economy. The institution plays a key role in providing the labour required for the maritime industry in the country.
- Location: Mikanjuni Road, Mombasa
- Contact: 0746 795 831
2. Kenya School of Revenue Administration
The Kenya School of Revenue Administration offers specialized Diploma and Certificate courses in maritime transport logistics and customs administration. These programs are available at their campuses in Nairobi and Mombasa.
- Contacts: 0715 877 539 / 0715 877 531
3. Kenya Railways Marine School
Located at Kisumu Port, the Kenya Railways Marine School is a constituent campus of the Railways Training Institute. It serves as a premier marine training centre, aimed at developing expertise and playing a key role in Kenya’s sustainable blue economy.
- Contact: 020 237 8397
4. Indian Ocean Maritime Training Centre
The Indian Ocean Maritime Training Centre offers professional training in line with international standards for seafarers. It covers a wide range of maritime disciplines, including merchant shipping, super yachts, the oil and gas industry, and leisure boating.
- Location: Watamu
- Contacts: 0714 998 805 / 0723 974 666
5. Premier Training Institute
Premier Training Institute focuses on developing human resource competencies in maritime operations, hospitality, and culinary arts. It is known for providing training programs that align with maritime industry needs.
- Location: Nkubu
- Contact: 0706 590 366
6. Mount Kenya University
Mount Kenya University (MKU) is accredited by the Kenya Maritime Authority to offer Certificate and Diploma courses in maritime and transport logistics. These courses are available at MKU’s Mombasa campus.
- Contact: 020 800 2096
7. Kenya Methodist University (KEMU)
KEMU’s Mombasa campus offers professional shipping courses, validated by the Kenya Maritime Authority. The campus is located at the former Oshwal Academy Building.
- Contacts: 0724 256 162 / 0725 751 828
8. Technical University of Mombasa
The Technical University of Mombasa (TUM) is among the leading institutions in maritime education in Kenya. The university offers a variety of courses in marine engineering, maritime management, shipping, and logistics.
- Location: Tom Mboya Street, Tudor, Mombasa
9. Maritime & Management Institute of East Africa
The Maritime & Management Institute of East Africa is based in Mombasa and has been validated by the Institute of Chartered Shipbrokers (UK). The institution offers specialized maritime courses that cater to the needs of the industry.
- Location: Opposite UTC Gate, Al Heelam Building, Moi Avenue
10. Pioneer International University
Pioneer International University is a private university in Nairobi that has been approved by the Kenya Maritime Authority to offer maritime courses. These courses are offered at its main campus.
- Location: Murang’a Road, Opposite KICD, Nairobi
- Contacts: 0700 372 354 / 0740 635 657
These maritime institutions in Kenya play a pivotal role in training professionals who will be key to advancing the country’s blue economy. With courses ranging from marine engineering to logistics and management, they offer diverse programs designed to meet the growing demand for maritime expertise in both local and international markets.
