Kenya Comprehends Using KDF For Export Ships Escort To Middle East
The government has signalled it may turn to military-backed maritime security to safeguard Kenyan exports headed to the Middle East as conflict in the region continues to disrupt key trade routes.
Industry Principal Secretary Juma Mukhwana, speaking during an interview on NTV on Tuesday, said authorities are exploring the possibility of deploying special escorts for cargo vessels navigating high-risk maritime zones.
The development follows mounting pressure from exporters and industry groups who say the ongoing instability has made it increasingly difficult to ship goods to one of Kenya’s most lucrative markets.
Mukhwana noted that several countries have already adopted similar strategies, deploying naval or security escorts to protect vessels passing through contested sea corridors critical to Middle East trade.
He explained that Kenya could consider coordinated shipments, where exporters consolidate cargo destined for hubs such as Jeddah, before arranging secure passage under government-supported frameworks.
“We need to work with the Chamber. For us to do consolidated cargo, maybe to Jeddah, we would ask the Chamber to come to us with the consignment, and we can see the modalities to help them reach their destinations,” he said.
He added that escorting ships remains one of the options on the table, although challenges such as the lack of a national shipping line and high insurance risks continue to complicate the plan.
“In response to your concerns, remember that we do not have a shipping line of our own, and the issue of insurance is also there,” Mukhwana stated.
“But with other countries escorting their ships, we should also be able to do that.”
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The PS further revealed that Kenya could adopt a hybrid approach, including escorting vessels up to safer zones such as the Red Sea before switching to alternative logistics like airlifting or regional freight redistribution.
Details of KDF Involvement
Such an operation would likely involve the Kenya Defence Forces (KDF) Navy, working alongside international maritime security coalitions, port authorities, and private shipping firms to coordinate safe transit routes.
It would also require close collaboration with agencies such as the Kenya Maritime Authority (KMA), insurers, diplomatic channels, and regional allies.
This will help secure clearances, share intelligence, and manage the legal and operational risks tied to military escorts in international waters.
Kenya Comprehends Using KDF For Export Ships Escort To Middle East
