Mt. Kenya University Hosts Inaugural Coastal Regional Research Workshop On The Blue Economy
Panelists during the meeting
By MTK Correspondents
Worth Noting:
- Mercyline Kamande, the MKU Deputy Vice Chancellor Academics & Research Affairs (DVC-ARA), officially inaugurated the conference, which was also graced by Dr. Henry Yatich, Principal of the College of Graduate Studies & Research (CGSR).
- They recognized the value of the blue economy and its capacity to solve the problems facing the coastal area.
- They noted that the theme of the conference was closely aligned with the government’s initiative to leverage the Blue Economy as a means to tackle unemployment, promote environmental conservation, foster diversity and inclusion, and ensure food security.
- The inaugural keynote address was delivered by Mr. Stanley Ndege Chai, the Secretary of Shipping & Logistics at The Ocean & Blue Economy Office which is part of the Executive Office of the President.
Theme: Research, Entrepreneurship and innovation for a resilient Blue Economy
The leading private university in research and innovations, Mount Kenya University (MKU) convened a forum on Blue Economy.
The inaugural Research and Innovation Conference 2025 took place at MKU Plaza in Mombasa on Tuesday, drawing stakeholders from different sectors.
It convened a diverse group of scholars, researchers, innovators, industry leaders, and policymakers to engage in discussions centered around the theme “Research, Entrepreneurship and Innovation for a Resilient Blue Economy.”
Dr. Mercyline Kamande, the MKU Deputy Vice Chancellor Academics & Research Affairs (DVC-ARA), officially inaugurated the conference, which was also graced by Dr. Henry Yatich, Principal of the College of Graduate Studies & Research (CGSR).
They recognized the value of the blue economy and its capacity to solve the problems facing the coastal area.
They noted that the theme of the conference was closely aligned with the government’s initiative to leverage the Blue Economy as a means to tackle unemployment, promote environmental conservation, foster diversity and inclusion, and ensure food security.
The inaugural keynote address was delivered by Mr. Stanley Ndege Chai, the Secretary of Shipping & Logistics at The Ocean & Blue Economy Office which is part of the Executive Office of the President.
He emphasized the advancements in the Blue Economy resulting from the passage of legislation in Parliament and emphasized the potential within the blue economy, which encompasses various activities including those on land, shipping, and fishing.
Chai urged the University to initiate a program in Maritime Law. This initiative aims to close the training and professional divide in the prosecution of crimes committed on the seas and oceans. Moreover, he pinpointed maritime logistics research as a prime opportunity that bolsters the blue economy as he asserted the issue of examining research gaps and seeking innovative solutions for the blue economy since it was crucial to think boldly and collaborate effectively.
By uniting our efforts, he noted, stakeholders have the potential to elevate Kenya to the forefront of sustainable ocean resource management, all while guaranteeing that communities enjoy the rewards of the transformation.
He underscores the need of leveraging stakeholders combined knowledge to create a robust blue economy that protects the ocean heritage for the benefit of future generations.
Another speaker, Ayub Mohamed, the Campus Program Manager at Swahilipot Hub, who has been collaborating with MKU Mombasa on a range of initiatives emphasized the role of the Hub in fostering innovations which are aimed at propelling the economic growth of the coastal region.
Their activities were underscored, particularly the provision of internships for students in tertiary institutions. Their involvement extends to the Pwani Innovation Challenge. Among the partners in attendance were Ajira Digital, Close the Gap, and Eco Print Generation.
Two presentations were delivered by MKU students, while four were presented by the teaching staff.
The opening presentation was delivered by Victoria Chebet, a student of Bachelor of Business Information Technology program, who discussed the Maji ni Uhai Project. This initiative focuses on ocean conservation, aiming to mitigate marine pollution through heightened awareness of its effects, the reduction of plastic waste, and the protection of marine ecosystems.
The initiative effectively integrates community-driven solutions through a combination of educational programs, beach clean-ups, and awareness campaigns.
The preservation of marine life and the promotion of a healthier marine environment are crucially interconnected, underscoring the importance of this initiative.
Gabriel Mwaingo, a student in the Bachelor of Business Information Technology program, delivered a presentation focused on the innovative use of additive manufacturing and 3D printing technology. His discussion centered on the potential to recycle plastic waste into high-quality 3D filaments, which can then be utilized to create visual learning aids and models. He established Eco-print generation. The presentation highlighted the innovative transformation of plastic waste into 3D-printed educational resources, aimed at assisting both learners and educators in closing the gap in STEM education. The students’ two presentations received commendations for their exemplary efforts, with encouragement to pursue patenting their innovations.
Phillip Bittok and Biko Magati Steve from the School of Computing and Informatics examined Machine Learning Methods to forecast metal contamination in Kenyan coastal water, sediments, and fauna.
Machine learning improved forecast accuracy and enabled real-time data analysis in maritime pollution monitoring, highlighting its importance. They found that integrating AI and the IoT could improve heavy metal contamination detection and enable policy-driven solutions. They stressed that future research must address scalability, cost reduction, and regulatory integration. They stressed the importance of government, private sector, and academia partnership for a sustainable Blue Economy.
Phillip and Biko made recommendations based on these findings. They promoted national AI-driven marine surveillance frameworks to improve environmental protection. They stressed the need for academics, industry, and policymakers to collaborate on pollution detection and management studies. They stressed the need for IoT infrastructure for real-time maritime pollution monitoring. In conclusion, he stressed the need for better regulatory rules to integrate machine learning into environmental monitoring and promote a data-driven marine conservation plan.
Dr. Zipporah Nyachwaya from the School of Business and Economics delivered a convincing analysis on Climate Finance and Entrepreneurial Opportunities within the Blue Economy to promote sustainable growth in the face of climate change. She stressed the need for deliberate financial interventions and legislative changes to capitalize on the blue economy while tackling climate dangers. Her talk suggested using regulatory-driven blue bonds and financial incentives to boost private investment in blue finance. She stressed the importance of strengthening regulatory frameworks with blue carbon plans and international funding channels to support healthy marine economies. Ecosystem-Based Adaptation (EbA), Marine Protected Areas (MPAs), and Integrated Coastal Zone Management (ICZM) are essential for coastal resilience, according to Dr. Zipporah.
Climate change threatens marine ecosystems; thus, these solutions are crucial. She also promoted climate-smart aquaculture, low-carbon shipping, and marine biotechnology to maintain ocean-based sectors. She proposed mobilizing capital through blended finance mechanisms, strengthening Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) oversight, and eliminating harmful subsidies that hinder conservation initiatives to expand sustainable financing. Dr. Zipporah concluded that strategic investments in capacity building, skills training, and coastal sustainable livelihood projects are essential for community engagement. This technique empowers local communities to participate in and benefit from the blue economy. The presentation described a strategy for using climate finance to tap into blue economy entrepreneurial opportunities, arguing for sustainable growth in the face of climate change’s critical concerns.
Dr. Conrad Ochego from the School of Business and Economics discussed “Maritime Logistics: A Catalyst for Sustainable Growth of the Blue Economy,” emphasizing the importance of maritime trade in Kenya’s economy. According to the National Maritime Transport Policy, more than 90% of Kenya’s international trade is carried out by sea, stressing the sector’s economic importance. Dr. Conrad reported that cargo throughput at the Port of Mombasa rose from 33.88 million metric tonnes in 2022 to 35.98 million in 2023 in a detailed statistical briefing. Container traffic increased 11.9% to 1.62 million Twenty-foot Equivalent Units in 2023. Ship traffic increased 17.6% to 1,835 vessels at the port. According to the KNBS Economic Survey 2024, Container Freight Stations (CFS) processed 55.6% more TEUs in 2023 than in 2022, rising from 118,053 to 183,667. Despite optimistic sector growth estimates, Dr. Ochego asked: How can we ensure this expansion is sustainable? He identified three key maritime logistics principles: efficient transit, marine environment protection, and technical advancement. Cost reduction, shipping route optimization, and port performance improvements can increase efficiency, he said. Environmental protection requires responsible waste management, oil spill prevention, and sustainable shipping. He also stressed the importance of technology, recommending sustainable fuels, energy-efficient boats, and digital technologies to improve operating efficiency. Dr. Ochego stressed the need for stakeholder collaboration to promote maritime logistics sustainability in the future. He made several strategic recommendations, including integrated transport networks to improve connectivity, port infrastructure improvements to boost efficiency and competitiveness, and sustainable shipping practices through innovation and regulation. Dr. Ochego discussed the conference’s theme in detail, emphasizing the ocean’s longstanding function as an economic force that links nations and empowers industry. Kenya needs to invest in research and innovation, encourage entrepreneurs and startups, advocate for regulatory reforms, and improve marine skills to grow its blue economy. In doing so, he asserted, the nation can establish itself as a frontrunner in sustainable maritime logistics, securing enduring prosperity while protecting marine ecosystems.
Dr. Barasa Wamalwa, serving as the Mombasa Campus Director and a Senior Lecturer at the School of Business and Economics, concluded the series of presentations with a compelling focus on Education and Training for the Blue Economy. During his address, Dr. Wamalwa highlighted the pivotal role that education plays in shaping the future of the Blue Economy. He stressed its significance in raising awareness about marine environments and in providing individuals with the essential knowledge and skills required to cultivate and execute sustainable practices. He emphasized the critical role of a knowledgeable and proficient workforce in fostering innovation, shaping policy, and ensuring responsible resource management within ocean-based industries. He contended that by incorporating specialized training programs and academic curricula focused on the Blue Economy, institutions can cultivate professionals equipped to tackle emerging challenges and seize new opportunities within the sector. Dr. Wamalwa’s presentation underscored the critical role of education as the bedrock of a flourishing Blue Economy, emphasizing the necessity for both present and future generations to be adequately prepared to tackle the intricacies of marine conservation, maritime trade, and the sustainable use of ocean resources.
As the inaugural conference on Research, Entrepreneurship, and Innovation for a Resilient Blue Economy concluded, one message resonated clearly; action must follow insight. The ongoing discussions and deliberations have highlighted the significant potential of Kenya’s Blue Economy; however, unlocking this potential demands a unified commitment from all stakeholders involved.
It is imperative for researchers to advance the boundaries of knowledge, fostering innovation that guarantees the sustainable stewardship of marine resources.
Entrepreneurs and innovators are urged to capitalize on emerging opportunities, turning concepts into sustainable, viable businesses that bolster economic resilience.
Simultaneously, it is imperative for policymakers and institutions to devise and execute strategies that encourage investment, enhance education, and advocate for the responsible use of resources.
Investors and development partners are pivotal in financing sustainable initiatives that harmonize economic growth with environmental conservation. It is imperative that coastal communities, along with other essential stakeholders, assume responsibility for the future of the sector. By embracing best practices, they can foster sustainability and ensure long-term prosperity. The insights articulated during this conference must now evolve into tangible actions. The trajectory of Kenya’s Blue Economy hinges on solutions rooted in research, the spirit of entrepreneurship, and a resilience fuelled by innovation.
By uniting under a common vision and taking bold actions, Kenya stands poised to capitalize on the immense possibilities presented by the ocean. The imperative is unmistakable and the moment for action is upon us.
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