MOMBASA, Kenya, June 19 — President William Ruto toured the Dr Fridtjof Nansen research vessel at the Port of Mombasa after returning from the G7 Summit in France, highlighting Kenya’s growing focus on marine science and the Blue Economy.
The vessel, owned by Norway and operated under the United Nations flag, is used for ocean research, fisheries assessment and marine ecosystem monitoring.
Ruto said the visit reflected Kenya’s cooperation with Norway in marine science, ocean sustainability and maritime development.
Vessel to Support Marine Resource Mapping
The Dr Fridtjof Nansen vessel is expected to support scientific work aimed at improving understanding of Kenya’s marine resources.
The ship is equipped for fisheries surveys, ocean monitoring and marine ecosystem research.
Such data can help guide sustainable fishing, marine conservation and long-term planning for coastal communities.
Kenyan Scientists to Gain Research Experience
Kenyan scientists are expected to work with the vessel’s research teams to strengthen local technical capacity.
The collaboration will support skills transfer in ocean science, fisheries assessment and sustainable marine resource management.
The vessel has a long history of supporting marine research in Kenya, including earlier surveys along the Kenyan coast.
Boost for Sustainable Fishing
The research is expected to help Kenya make better decisions on fishing zones, fish stock management and marine ecosystem protection.
Reliable data is critical for reducing overfishing and supporting communities that depend on the ocean for income and food.
The visit also comes as Kenya hosts major ocean governance discussions in Mombasa.
Kenya-Norway Cooperation Deepens
The vessel is part of the EAF-Nansen Programme, a long-running fisheries development initiative supported by FAO and Norway.
Its return to Kenya has been linked to efforts to strengthen ocean science, fisheries management and capacity development.
Conclusion
President Ruto’s tour of the Dr Fridtjof Nansen vessel signals Kenya’s push to place science at the centre of its Blue Economy strategy.
By mapping marine resources, training Kenyan scientists and supporting sustainable fishing, the vessel’s work could help Kenya protect its ocean wealth while creating new opportunities for coastal livelihoods.
