Defence committee Tour Navy Base

The National Assembly Committee on Defence, Intelligence and Foreign Relations has toured Mtongwe Navy Base and Mombasa Ship Yard as part of it’s oversight Mandate.

During the tour in the company of Vice Chief of Defence Forces Lt. Gen. Francis Ogolla, the committee was taken through the History and operations of the Kenyan Navy.

Committee Chair Nelson Koech (Belgut) also paid a courtesy call on Kenya Navy Commander Major Gen. Jimson Mutai who also briefed him on the roles organization and functions of the Kenya Navy.

Kenya Navy Chief of Operations Colonel Michael Atodonyang told the committee that the arm has played a pivotal role in the provision of Maritime Security that continues to spur growth in the Blue Economy.

Later, committee Members toured the Mombasa Shipping yard where they got the overview and milestones made so far since it’s commissioning in December 2021.

Kenya Ship Yards Managing Director Brigadier Paul Otieno pledged to work closely with the committee to enhance operations of the facility.

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“The revival of the Kenya Shipyard Limited has been very instrumental at boosting the regional security and economy,” he said.

Hon. Koech said the committee was open to deeper collaboration with the Department of Defence to ease its work while safeguarding the security of the State.

“Our doors are open and we area ready to deepen our collaboration with you to help you continue defending our borders on land, at sea and in the air,” said Hon. Koech.

“The ongoing midlife refit of Kenya Navy Ship Shupavu and construction of MV Uhuru II is evidence of the impact that KSL is bringing to the regions economy,” said Brigadier Otieno.

The committee also undertook a familiarization tour onboard Kenya Navy Ship Jasiri, and also had a sea experience during a short sea ride within Kilindini Harbour.