Mombasa County residents will benefit greatly after President Uhuru Kenyatta launches the Kenya Coast Guard Service on November 19.
Speaking at the Mombasa State House on Thursday, Spokesperson Kanze Dena, said that this launch is aimed at supporting the Blue Economy initiative that will benefit the country and locals alike.
Below is how Mombasa residents will benefit.
1. Maritime security and safety
The service led by Brigadier Vincent Naisho Loonena has the responsibility of safeguarding Kenyan waters. It is also its responsibility to control pollution in the sea, coming up with appropriate sanitation measures and ultimately prosecuting offenders.
Reduced pollution will help Mombasa residents and tourists access a clean ocean.
2. Search and rescue
The service will have its headquarters in Liwatoni, Mombasa County and will carry out search and rescue team. This is good news for anglers, deep-sea fishers and those who travel by sea in Mombasa. There will be no delays in saving lives in case an accident happens.
3. Port and coastal security
This newly formed team will guard the port and offer general coastal security. They have the mandate of ensuring the port transactions are in line with Kenyan laws that support blue economy's prosperity.
The service will also protect maritime resources including fisheries.