By Andrew Kariuki
The Kenya Ports Authority (KPA) has announced 194 internship and apprenticeship opportunities for young graduates across various departments within the organization as part of its commitment to youth empowerment, skills development and professional capacity building.
The program, which will run for one year beginning in April 2026, is designed to give recent graduates an opportunity to gain hands-on workplace experience while developing practical skills required in the modern job market.
KPA noted that the initiative forms part of its broader effort to help bridge the gap between academic training and practical industry experience while strengthening Kenya’s maritime, logistics and trade sectors.
As the state corporation responsible for managing and operating Kenya’s seaports, the Authority plays a critical role in facilitating international trade, logistics operations and regional economic development.
Through the internship and apprenticeship program, KPA aims to contribute to the development of a skilled workforce capable of supporting the continued growth of the maritime and logistics sector in Kenya and the wider East African region.
The program seeks to provide young graduates with practical exposure to professional working environments while allowing them to apply knowledge and skills acquired during their academic studies. It is also intended to enhance employability by equipping participants with workplace experience and professional competencies such as communication, teamwork, problem-solving and time management.
Successful applicants will be deployed across various departments within the Kenya Ports Authority depending on their academic qualifications and specialization.
Areas of placement include engineering and technical services, logistics and supply chain management, finance and accounting, human resource management, information and communication technology (ICT) administration and corporate services, environmental and safety management, and maritime and port operations.
During the internship period, participants will receive mentorship from experienced professionals, engage in departmental assignments, participate in operational projects and develop professional networks that may support their future careers.
KPA stated that interns are expected to gain valuable competencies including professional communication and workplace etiquette, teamwork and interpersonal skills, analytical thinking and problem-solving abilities, as well as a better understanding of organizational processes, governance structures and professional responsibility.
To qualify for the program, applicants must be Kenyan citizens aged 27 years or below at the time of application.
They must have graduated with a degree, diploma or certificate from a recognized and accredited institution between January 2023 and December 2025.
Applicants must also not have previously undertaken any internship program or gained work experience related to their field of study since graduation and must not have retired from or exited formal employment.
The Kenya Ports Authority emphasized that it is an equal opportunity employer, encouraging applications from qualified individuals from all regions of the country.
The Authority also promotes gender equality and strongly encourages persons living with disabilities (PWDs) to apply.
KPA stated that the internship and apprenticeship program provides a valuable opportunity for young graduates to gain meaningful professional experience, build networks and develop the skills necessary to succeed in their chosen careers while contributing to the development of Kenya’s maritime and logistics industry.
