Kenya is working to boost the security of its maritime gateways with a national workshop in Mombasa (26 - 30 May) on Port Facility Security Assessments (PFSAs), aligned with the requirements of the International Ship and Port Facility Security (ISPS) Code.
By the end of the five-day training, 22 participants from key maritime and security institutions*, including Port Facility Security Officers (PFSOs), representatives from the Designated Authority, law enforcement bodies, and port operations personnel, will be equipped with knowledge and tools to conduct comprehensive PFSAs. This will focus on identifying and addressing vulnerabilities across physical security, structural integrity, personnel protection systems, telecommunications, utilities, and procedural protocols. These assessments form the foundation for developing robust Port Facility Security Plans and ensuring compliance with Kenya's international maritime obligations.
"A well-executed port facility security assessment helps us to understand the risks, identify the vulnerabilities, and put in place protection and deterrence mechanisms,"said Mr. Aden Abdulhakim, speaking on behalf of Mr. Aden Abdi Millah, Principal Secretary, State Department for Shipping and Maritime Affairs.
The workshop is jointly organized by the International Maritime Organization (IMO) and the Government of Kenya, under the EU-funded Port Security and Safety of Navigation Programme in Eastern and Southern Africa and the Indian Ocean (EA-SA-IO). The programme supports nine participating countries -Angola, Comoros, Kenya, Madagascar, Mauritius, Mozambique, Namibia, Seychelles, and the United Republic of Tanzania -to enhance maritime security and safety in line with the 2050 Africa's Integrated Maritime Strategy (AIMS).
The programme offers targeted technical assistance at both the national administration and port facility levels, aiming to strengthen the institutional capacities of maritime authorities and operational agencies within the EA-SA-IO region.
*The State Department for Shipping and Maritime Affairs, National Intelligence Service, Kenya Navy, Kenya Coast Guard Service, Southern Engineering Co. Ltd (SECO), and Kenya Ports Authority.
