President William Ruto on Thursday, November 3, reaffirmed Kenya’s nomination of Amb. Mrs. Nancy Karigithu for the position of Secretary-General of the International Maritime Organisation (IMO).
In a statement released by StateHouse Spokesperson, Hussein Mohamed, the nomination underscores the fact that climate change and adaptation, and the health of the ocean and seas remain key pillars of Kenya’s foreign policy.
The bid also demonstrates Kenya’s increasingly active participation in multilateral diplomacy, which boosts Kenyascredentials as a leader in the promotion of the blue economy for sustainable development.
“The President expressed confidence that Amb. Karigithu will bring to the IMO strong competence and invaluable experience in the management of global maritime and development of the ocean and blue economy that hold much promise for the international community,” part of the statement read.
Kenya secured the endorsement of the African Union for Amb. Karigithu’s candidature during the High-Level Mid-Year Coordination Meeting in Lusaka, Zambia, in mid-July, 2022.
Amb. Karigithu is a world-renowned maritime expert who has been an active leader and a consequential voice in promoting the objectives of IMO dedicated to safety, security, and environmental protection in the maritime industry.
Amb. Karigithu currently serves as Kenya’s Special Envoy for Blue Economy and Maritime Affairs.
The election for the position of secretary general of IMO will be held in July 2023 where the 40 members of the IMO will pick the successor of Mr. KitackLim of Korea.
If elected, the Kenyan maritime diplomat will be the first African and the first woman to hold the position.
