Launch Standards for Training,Certification Railway Training Institute

The Cabinet Secretary for Roads and Transport Hon Kipchumba Murkomen yesterday presided over the launch of standards for training, certification, and watch keeping for seafarers at the Railway Training Institute (RTI) Marine School in Kisumu

The Cabinet Secretary also witnessed signing of an MOU between Kenya Railways and the Kenya Utalii College. This is a partnership that will enable graduates from these institutions to access job opportunities in the wider marine sector, including hospitality in the cruise ship industry.

Hon. Murkomen also unveiled the RTI refurbished facilities and announced that this is the premier institution for imparting skills and knowledge in marine operations in the region and will greatly boost the transport, hospitality, and the tourism sectors.

He said the Ministry of Roads and Transport would continue with its transformation agenda to ensure that Lake Victoroa benefits the country and the wider region.

Hon Murkomen saluted the Kisumu Governor HE. Prof. Anyang' Nyong'o for partnering the Ministry and sponsoring the pioneer students who graduated today.

He said the school would contribute to the enhancement of safety in the country's inland waters.

He directed the Kenya Maritime Authority to certification all lake users and seafarers to ensure the safety of operations in the country's waters.

Hon. Murkomen said the launch of the courses at the institution is a major milestone in the country's journey towards realizing a sustainable blue economy in the country and expanding its contribution to national development.

The courses have been developed through collaboration with International Maritime organization and the  Kenya Maritime Authority to facilitate quality management and safety of Kenya's waterways, and promote regional integration  and trade.

He saluted the graduands of the first cohort of this program. 'As a former university lecturer, I know what innovation, creativity and energy young Kenyans can bring to the labour market when given a chance to acquire knowledge and skills.

Present was the Kisumu Deputy Governor, Matthews Owili, Kenya Railways Chairman Mohamed Abdi, Kenya Railways  Managing Director, Philip Mainga, Kenya Utalii College Chairman Hon. David Omutsotsi and Kenya Maritime Authority Director General John Omingo