Technical University of Mombasa (TUM) is hosting a huge event to sensitize youths about opportunities available in the blue economy.
The two-day event, dubbed the Vijana na Blue Economy Forum, officially began on Wednesday, August 8, 2025, and has brought together key stakeholders, youth representatives, and government officials.
The main aim is to explore opportunities in the growing blue economy and to share the information on how youths could position themselves with requisite skills and other requirements in order to make careers in it.
TUM Deputy Vice Chancellor in charge of Academic Research and Extension, Prof Peter Gichangi, opened the forum on behalf of the Vice Chancellor Prof Laila Abubakar.
Prof Gichangi told the audience that the blue economy provides most unique opportunities for youth empowerment in Kenya today.
The sector, he said, is uniquely placed in driving economic growth, creating employment, and improving livelihoods through the sustainable use of ocean resources.
The DVC reminded the audience about Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 14 – Life below Water, which advocates for the protection of marine ecosystems and conservation of marine biodiversity while maximizing oceanic benefits to communities.
The professor underscored the potential for growth in coastal and marine tourism, diversification of marine sports, and the development of port operations, which are crucial for global trade and climate resilience.
Gichangi urged the government to enhance training in coastal and maritime management and to update systems and promote multi-sector collaboration.
The Coast Regional Coordinator of the Youth Affairs and the Creative economy Mr Charles Ayacko provided context on the blue economy for youth. He emphasized on the need to equip young people with the right skills, mentorship, and financial support to fully participate in this transformative sector.
Mr Walter Odhiambo, National Director of SOS Children’s Villages Kenya, encouraged the youth to actively engage in the blue economy, highlighting its potential to drive transformative change and provide real-world experience that aligns with sustainable development.
On his part, Mombasa Deputy Governor Hon. Francis Thoya commended the initiative as a vital platform for empowering youth and unlocking the potential of Kenya’s ocean economy.
Thoya called for bridging of the information gaps such that the youths and key stakeholders are aware of the opportunities in cruise and cargo ship deployment, and also about innovations that enhance ocean-based livelihoods.
“This forum is transformative—it shapes lives and livelihoods,” Thoya quipped.
Mr Oliver Bunting, the Managing director of lead shipping company MAERSK, highlighted the transformative power of the Blue Economy.
He noted its potential to empower youth through regional integration, inclusive development, and capacity building.
Bunting called for more efforts toward equipping young people with the right skills to participate in new opportunities within the sector.
He also outlined MAERSK's role as a global leader in maritime logistics. "We, as a shipping company, advance the Blue Economy through sustainable shipping, trade facilitation, and partnerships that drive innovation. These efforts create employment opportunities for young people across the region," he said.
