The Kenyan government is considering deploying military-backed maritime security to protect cargo vessels exporting goods to the Middle East, as escalating regional conflict continues to disrupt key global trade routes.
Speaking in a televised interview on Tuesday, Industry Principal Secretary Juma Mukhwana said authorities are exploring the possibility of providing special escorts for ships navigating high-risk maritime zones.
The move comes amid mounting pressure from exporters and industry stakeholders who warn that instability in the middle East is severely affecting trade flows to one of Kenya’s most lucrative export markets.
Mukhwana noted that several countries have already adopted similar strategies, deploying naval escorts to safeguard vessels passing through contested sea corridors.
“We need to work with the Chamber. For us to do consolidated cargo, maybe to Jeddah, we would ask the Chamber to come to us with the consignment, and we can see the modalities to help them reach their destinations,” he said.
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The government is also considering cargo consolidation strategies, where exporters pool shipments destined for key hubs such as Jeddah before securing protected transit under state-supported arrangements.
However, Mukhwana acknowledged key challenges, including Kenya’s lack of a national shipping line and rising insurance costs linked to maritime risk.
“In response to your concerns, remember that we do not have a shipping line of our own, and the issue of insurance is also there. But with other countries escorting their ships, we should also be able to do that,” he added.
The PS further revealed that Kenya could adopt a hybrid logistics approach- escorting vessels to relatively safer zones such as the Red Sea before transitioning to alternative transport methods like air freight or regional redistribution.
Security and Coordination Requirements
Such an operation would likely involve the Kenya Defence Forces (KDF) working alongside international maritime security coalitions, port authorities, and private shipping firms to ensure safe passage.
It would also require coordination with the Kenya Maritime Authority (KMA), insurers, and diplomatic partners to secure clearances, share intelligence, and manage legal risks associated with military escorts in international waters.
Exporters Raise Alarm
The proposal comes against the backdrop of growing concern from exporters, who say the ongoing crisis has already caused significant financial losses and threatens jobs across the supply chain.
The Kenya National Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KNCCI) reports a sharp decline in export volumes to the Gulf region, a key destination for Kenyan fresh produce and other goods.
KNCCI President Eric Ruto warned that exporters are currently losing between Ksh800 million and Ksh1.2 billion weekly, with some businesses considering scaling down operations or laying off workers.
