The Kenya Maritime Authority (KMA) is reviewing the rules governing the reporting and investigation of marine accidents, alongside new fishing regulations.
According to a notice issued on Tuesday, October 27, 2026, the Merchant Shipping (Marine Casualty Reporting and Investigations) Regulations and the newly developed Merchant Shipping (Work in Fishing) Regulations are intended to strengthen the legal framework for maritime safety and conditions in the industry.
“Kenya Maritime Authority (KMA) in consultation with the State Department for Shipping and Maritime, the Office of the Attorney General and the Kenya Law Reform Commission, has reviewed the provisions of the Merchant Shipping (Marine Casualty Reporting and Investigations) Regulations and developed the Merchant Shipping (Work in Fishing) Regulations,” the notice read.
KMA unveils regulatory changes for maritime fishing
This follows an earlier fatal incident at Berth 14, where a cargo rigger died after heavy pipes reportedly rolled over him during offloading from a vessel.
Under the regulations, ship masters and owners are required to report certain accidents, while investigations are intended to establish their causes and prevent future occurrences rather than assign blame.
Additionally, the proposed Merchant Shipping (Work in Fishing) Regulations also seek to establish standards covering fishers’ employment agreements, rest periods, onboard accommodation, medical care, safety training and social protection.
The rules are designed to align Kenya’s maritime framework with international labour standards, including the International Labour Organisation’s (ILO) Work in Fishing Convention, which Kenya ratified in 2022.
Members of the public have therefore been invited to review the draft regulations on the authority’s website and submit their views through email by November 30.
