MPs Push Reforms to Boost Kenyan Jobs in Cruise Tourism

Members of the National Assembly’s Diaspora Affairs and Migrant Workers Committee have called for deliberate efforts to expand employment opportunities for Kenyan youth in the growing cruise tourism sector.

The call came as they received tourists onboard the Azamara Onward cruise liner at the Port of Mombasa Monday morning.

The Azamara Onward arrived from Port Victoria in Seychelles, carrying 630 passengers and 389 crew members. Only five Kenyans served on board, highlighting limited local employment in the sector.

Meanwhile, the vessel is expected to stay in Mombasa for two nights before departing for Zanzibar at 6pm on Tuesday. It marked the fifth cruise ship to dock at the port this season.

Cruise Tourism Mombasa Jobs Draw Parliamentary Pressure

Ruiru Member of Parliament Simon King’ara said Kenya’s stability is attracting more cruise ships. He noted that improved port infrastructure is supporting larger vessels.

“Kenya is at peace, and that is why they chose us as a safe maritime destination,” King’ara said.

In addition, Lamu East Member of Parliament Captain Ruweida Obo raised concerns over the Seafarer’s Identification Document. She said the government is finalising its rollout with the Ministry of Blue Economy.

Obo urged young people to pursue maritime and hospitality training. She cited a Kenyan crew member who trained at Bandari College and secured a job after completing required certifications.

Meanwhile, Likoni Member of Parliament Mishi Mboko called for policy changes to improve the visitor experience. She criticised the double-entry fee charged to cruise tourists.

“If a tourist pays once, they should not have to pay again,” Mboko said. “That will encourage them to go out, spend money, and visit more attraction centres.”

Port Growth Signals Rising Opportunity

According to ship agent Hashim Ahmed, the East African cruise season runs from mid-November to May. He said several ships have already docked in Mombasa this season.

Kenya Ports Authority General Manager for Cargo Operations Dr Sudi Mwasinago said the country earned about USD 2.1 million from coastal tourism last year.

As a result, Mwasinago noted that global instability in other regions is shifting cruise traffic toward safer destinations like Kenya.

Furthermore, Mombasa Woman Representative Zamzam Mohammed called for investment in cultural sites. She said better attractions will encourage tourists to spend more time and money locally.

“We must ensure that as this sector grows, Kenyan youth are equipped with the right skills,” Mohammed said.

Ahmed added that Mombasa has a strategic advantage in the region. He said the port’s cruise terminal is the only dedicated facility between Mombasa and Cape Town.

He urged the government to position Kenya as a key cruise hub where passengers start and end their journeys, increasing jobs both onshore and onboard.