They received insightful briefings from the Head of IPSTC School of Postgraduate studies Colonel Kimwele and IPSTC’s Police Advisor, SSP Zipporah Nderitu, who provided expert perspectives on regional peacekeeping efforts and the evolving role of international relations in conflict resolution.

The visit offered the students a practical understanding of theoretical concepts, fostering meaningful dialogue between academia and practitioners.

The maritime sector plays a pivotal role in Kenya’s economy, with over 90% of international trade being seaborne—valued at more than USD 3 billion annually. Kenya’s strategic ports in Mombasa and Lamu serve as critical gateways to the Eastern and Central African region, supporting a population of over 300 million people. This expansive sector includes shipping, port operations, fisheries, maritime logistics, offshore resource exploration, and maritime security.

Despite its increasing importance, women remain significantly underrepresented in Kenya’s maritime industry. According to the Kenya Maritime Authority (KMA), women account for less than 10% of the maritime workforce, with even lower participation in seafaring and technical roles. Most women are concentrated in clerical, administrative, and hospitality-related roles within the port and shipping sectors. A gender audit conducted by the International Maritime Organization (IMO) and the Association of Women in the Maritime Sector in Eastern and Southern Africa (WOMESA) found that only 3% of seafarers in the region are women—and most are not engaged in operational or navigational roles.

The Chief Guest, UNDP Kenya Resident Representative, Ms. Madelena Monoja, commended IPSTC for organizing this timely workshop, noting its importance in addressing the underrepresentation of women and promote gender equality in maritime security sector. The workshop also serves as a key milestone in kickstarting project implementation toward inclusive and sustainable peace and security.

In her remark, Director IPSTC Brigadier Joyce Sitienei highlighted the importance of this research agenda, noting that it aims to bridge the gap between policy aspirations and real-world implementation. The agenda focuses on identifying barriers, exploring opportunities, and recommending strategic actions to empower women in the maritime security domain.

Colonel Catherine Lagat, Head of Research Department highlighted the importance of research in generating evidence - based knowledge to inform policy, training and curriculum development.

Today's event has brought together subject matter experts to collaboratively share their insights and contribute to the discussions on the topics presented.

The event was highlighted by an inspiring address from the Deputy Commandant HPSS Lieutenant Colonel Kaptuway, who encouraged the participants to take tree planting as a critical contribution to environmental protection. He emphasized the importance of such actions in building a resilient and sustainable future, urging the participants to carry the spirit of environmental stewardship beyond the training grounds.

The participants planted a variety of trees across the HPSS compound. The exercise served as a practical and symbolic gesture of commitment to environmental protection and sustainability. The participation of the attendees added a valuable dimension to the event, underscoring the interconnectedness of gender, peacebuilding, and environmental responsibility.

This session reinforced the core values of the Environmental Soldier Programme, promoting hands-on environmental action supported by strong leadership.