The benefits of the blue economy to Coast residents and Kenya at large have been limited due to inadequate research.
However, there is hope after a marine expedition kicked off in the region.
Kenya Marine and Fisheries Research Institute (KEMFRI) has confirmed that the 2014 Sh3.5 billion research ship donation to Kenya by Belgium is ready to commence duty.
KEMFRI Executive Director Dr James Njiru has said apart from the ship being refurbished, it has been renamed RV Mtafiti from the Flemish Research Vessel.
The ship now has meteorological sensors and modern eco-sounder, 29 crew members and 47 scientists capacity, which is set to enhance studies.
Dr Njiru said the oceanographic vessel will be manned by the Kenya Navy, adding that this is an opportunity for Kenya to reap full benefits of marine endorsement, by boosting the country’s economic prospects.
"RV Mtafiti upgraded to a state-of-the-art research vessel will now help us to venture deep into the sea to survey the rich oceanic expanse. This vessel dedicated to marine research will help us understand the quality and quantity of marine resources we have as a country in the ocean," said Dr Njiru.
"Blue economy involving all those economic activities that take place in the ocean is the new frontier of African renaissance and in Kenya we hope the survey ship will help us tap into the ocean," he added.