President William Ruto has announced a deal that could see at least 1,000 Kenyans employed by Norwegian shipping companies by 2030, marking one of the largest overseas job commitments secured during his current European tour.
Speaking after meetings in Oslo on Tuesday, Ruto said the agreement would open new opportunities for Kenyan seafarers while strengthening cooperation between Kenya and Norway in the maritime sector.
“We welcome the commitment by Wilhelmsen Ship Management and other Norwegian shipping companies to employ 1,000 Kenyan seafarers by 2030, including 120 by the end of this year,” the President said.
New Opportunities for Kenyan Seafarers
The agreement centres on the recruitment of Kenyan maritime professionals by Norwegian firms, with the first batch expected to begin securing employment before the end of 2026.
The initiative forms part of Kenya’s broader push to expand overseas employment opportunities and position itself as a supplier of skilled labour to international markets.
Government officials say the move will also support the country’s growing blue economy agenda by creating pathways for trained maritime workers.
Beyond Jobs
The discussions in Oslo extended beyond employment.
Kenya and Norway also explored cooperation in green shipping, ocean conservation and maritime technology.
Officials said both countries are considering the development of green trade corridors aimed at making maritime transport more environmentally friendly while improving trade links.
The talks also focused on strengthening shipping connections between East Africa and Northern Europe.
Focus on Mombasa and Lamu Ports
Ruto said Kenya is exploring new maritime routes that could increase activity at the ports of Mombasa and Lamu.
The government hopes stronger links with Norwegian ports will improve trade flows, enhance supply chain efficiency and support the growth of Kenya’s shipbuilding capacity.
“We are also exploring new shipping routes to boost trade, strengthen supply chain resilience, enhance connectivity between the ports of Mombasa and Lamu and Norwegian ports, and expand our shipbuilding capacity,” Ruto said.
European Tour Yields Investment Deals
The announcement comes a day after the President revealed fresh investment commitments secured during a visit to Belgium.
According to the government, Kenya received support for digital infrastructure projects and funding linked to the Blue Raman submarine cable initiative.
Ruto is continuing his week-long European tour and is expected to travel to Finland, where further discussions on trade, investment and employment opportunities are planned.
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