By Joshua Otieno | March 17, 2026
The Chairman of Jumuiya ya Kaunti za Pwani (JKP), Dhadho Gaddae Godhana, who is also the Governor of Tana River County, held a meeting with the Managing Director of Kenya Ports Authority (KPA), Captain William Ruto, to address growing concerns over employment opportunities for coastal youth.
The meeting took place at KPA headquarters in Mombasa County amid increasing public outcry regarding limited job opportunities for young people from the Coast region, particularly those from Tana River.
During the discussions, the two leaders focused on enhancing cooperation between KPA and coastal counties, with a key emphasis on improving access to employment for local youth and supporting regional development initiatives.
“It is imperative that youth from the Coast get first consideration when it comes to employment at KPA because the facility is located here,” said Chairman Godhana.
He expressed concern that many young people from the region, especially in Tana River, are underrepresented in the authority’s workforce.
The leaders also explored plans for a water transport project aimed at connecting the six coastal counties through the sea and other water bodies to boost trade and mobility in the region.
Both parties agreed to convene a consultative meeting between JKP representatives and KPA management to further discuss job opportunities and areas of collaboration.
The talks also touched on environmental challenges affecting the Tana Delta, including sea water intrusion and the deteriorating sea wall in Kipini, with a shared commitment to find sustainable solutions.
Captain Ruto pledged continued collaboration with JKP and coastal leaders to address key issues affecting the region and unlock more opportunities for its residents.
The meeting marks a renewed push by coastal leaders to ensure greater inclusion of local communities in employment and development projects within the region.
