By PATRICK BEJA
MOMBASA, KENYA: The controversy over accidents aboard ships at the port of Mombasa has heightened, with shipping lines denying claims that they are part of the problem.
This follows a recent report by the Seafarers Union of Kenya (SUK) indicating that there have been 1,100 deaths of casual workers on board vessels at the port since 1983, and most of the victims’ families were never compensated.
Rogue ship contractors who are engaged by shipping lines have been roundly blamed for the problem.
But yesterday, Kenya Ship Agents Association Chief Executive Officer Juma Tellah vehemently defended shipping lines, saying they expected the ship contractors to hire trained workers and observe safety rules.
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“Shipping lines contract ship contractors to do tallying, lashing and ensure that seals are intact among other assignments. The onus is therefore on the contractors to ensure that their employees are adequately trained in safety issues,” Tellah said.
He said shipping lines expected Kenya Ports Authority to emphasise safety training prior to licensing contractors to operate in the port.
