President Uhuru Kenyatta arrived at Liwatoni, Mombasa County to launch the Kenya Coast Guard Service as part of the broad Blue Economy strategy.
The service is tasked with the management and enforcement of laws in Kenya’s internal and territorial waters.
The Kenya Coast Guard Service will be responsible for enforcing maritime security and safety, pollution control and sanitation measures as well as prosecution of offenders.
Related: Details of President Kenyatta's tight scheduled visit to Mombasa, Monday
The new service will also be responsible for port and coastal security, search and rescue, as well as protection of maritime resources.
Uhuru was received by Mombasa Governor Ali Hassan Joho at Fisheries Complex in Mombasa on Monday.
Several Coast leaders such as Kwale Governor Salim Mvurya and Taita Taveta Deputy Governor Majala Mlagui also welcomed Uhuru.
"This noble venture goes further to compliment safety and security in the sea as we look forward towards having a robust Blue Economy in our region," said Mvurya.