Construction of the proposed Lamu port is set to begin next month, with the promise of more jobs and expanded regional trade.

President Uhuru Kenyatta yesterday said the facility, which is part of the Lamu Port Southern Sudan-Ethiopia Transport corridor project, will provide an opportunity for exploitation of Kenya’s expansive maritime resources.

“Kenya’s maritime domain extends over 230,000 square kilometres — the equivalent of about 31 of our 47 counties. This vast resource has hitherto lain untapped by Kenyans. Special attention must be paid to education and training, so that our skills match the infrastructure we are building,” said Mr Kenyatta.

He spoke while addressing the opening of the 1st national maritime conference at Kenyatta International Convention Centre. Mr Kenyatta invited the private sector to help in education and training of the youth to boost the maritime sector.

Cabinet secretaries for Transport, Labour, Education and the National Treasury were directed to fast-track establishment of a centre of excellence in one of the public universities. It is expected to provide specialised training for the industry.

The President said recent investment in expansions was justified given that the maritime sector accounts for 92 per cent of Kenya’s global trade.

Access the Speech by Pesident  Uhuru Kenyatta at the opening of the 1st National Maritime Conference 2015 here