New Kenya-Norway Deal to Create 1,000 Seafarer Jobs by 2030

Kenya and Norway have signed a labour agreement that aims to place at least 1,000 Kenyan seafarers in Norway’s shipping industry by 2030, with the first 120 expected to secure employment by the end of this year.

President William Ruto announced the agreement after meetings in Oslo, describing it as an important step in Kenya’s efforts to expand opportunities in the blue economy and strengthen its maritime workforce. The deal was reached with major Norwegian shipping companies, including Wilhelmsen Ship Management.

The agreement is intended to create employment opportunities for Kenyan marine professionals while supporting the development of skills and expertise within the country’s maritime sector. Ruto said the commitment reflects growing confidence in Kenya’s maritime capabilities and aligns with the government’s strategy of increasing access to skilled jobs abroad.

The talks also covered broader cooperation between the two countries in green shipping, ocean sustainability and technology transfer. Kenya and Norway are exploring the development of green trade lanes aimed at reducing emissions from maritime transport while improving logistics links between East Africa and Northern Europe.

Discussions included plans to strengthen Kenya’s port infrastructure, with a focus on positioning Mombasa and Lamu as major gateways for regional and international trade. Proposed shipping routes are expected to improve supply chain resilience and connectivity while supporting efforts to expand Kenya’s shipbuilding capacity.

The developments could strengthen Kenya’s role in global maritime trade as the country seeks to diversify its economy and increase exports through the maritime sector. Ruto’s European tour, which has included visits to Belgium and Norway, will continue in Finland. 

The trip forms part of Kenya’s efforts to deepen economic cooperation with European partners while advancing priorities related to sustainability and labour mobility. The agreement with Norway combines employment opportunities with initiatives in green shipping and port development, reinforcing Kenya’s ambitions to expand its presence in the international maritime industry.