Kenya's maritime borders
Kenya's maritime borders remain a critical frontline in the fight against contraband, illegal activities and transnational crime, even as the Government, through the Border Control and Operations Coordination Committee (BCOCC) under the State Department for Interior and National Administration, continues to invest in the Blue Economy as a key driver of jobs, livelihoods and socio-economic growth.
Through a coordinated coastal and inland maritime security framework, operations are anchored at the Maritime Operations Centre, where safety, security and enforcement converge to coordinate patrols, surveillance and rapid response across key coastal stations; Shimoni, Kilindini, Ngomeni and Lamu, and inland water bodies including Naivasha, Mbita and Baringo.
Technology has become a force multiplier, enabling real-time monitoring of vessel movements, early detection of suspicious activities such as illegal cargo transfers at sea and swift response to threats ranging from smuggling and drug trafficking to illegal fishing and environmental violations.
These capabilities significantly strengthen inter-agency coordination at national, regional and international levels.
Community partnership remains central. The Usalama Baharini App, with over 1,200 registered users, empowers sea-going communities, particularly fishermen, to report safety and security concerns in real time, reinforcing trust and collaboration between citizens and the State.
This people-centred approach is complemented by joint maritime security exercises with international partners and by youth empowerment initiatives, including internship opportunities for Bandari Maritime students aboard operational vessels, helping build the next generation of maritime professionals.