AfDB pledges Sh2.1 billion for new civil engineering, blue economy centre at TUM

A major education investment is taking shape at the Technical University of Mombasa (TUM) in Mombasa County.

This is after the government confirmed that the institution will host a new blue economy and civil engineering training centre financed through the African Development Bank’s Higher Education, Science and Technology Phase II programme.

Education Cabinet Secretary Julius Ogamba said the project places TUM at the centre of Kenya’s long-term plan to grow skills in maritime and coastal development.

Ogamba said the bank has committed $16.3 million, approximately Sh2.1 billion, to build and equip the centre, which will focus on training, research and innovation in key blue economy areas.

His remarks were conveyed by Higher Education Secretary, Carol Hunja, during TUM’s 12th graduation ceremony, at which 3,281 students graduated.

He said the plan continues work done under HEST Phase I, which had helped the country expand training in technical and vocational fields.

The centre will offer advanced learning in coastal engineering, maritime logistics, port operations, sustainable fisheries and infrastructure that can withstand climate pressures.

“The centre aims to address emerging challenges and opportunities in these sectors, such as coastal engineering, port management, sustainable fisheries, maritime logistics and climate-resilient infrastructure,” Ogamba said.

According to the CS, the new facility will become a link between government, higher learning institutions and the private sector, allowing research teams and industry to work together.

Ogamba said the centre will be developed as a platform for capacity building and policy development, while helping TUM form linkages with international researchers.

“It will also attract international research collaborations and investments, positioning TUM as a leader in marine and coastal research, resilient infrastructure development, and environmental sustainability,” he said.

CS Ogamba said the government remains committed to supporting universities and ensuring they meet set standards.

He cited recent work done at TUM, including the construction of the School of Medicine at Sh266.8 million and the installation of mechanical ventilation and refrigeration equipment worth Sh35.1 million.

The School of Medicine and Health Sciences was launched on September 5, making it the first medical school in Mombasa County and placing TUM among the institutions accredited to offer medicine training.

TUM council chairman Frederick Odede said the fast-changing global landscape requires institutions to embrace technology while protecting the environment.

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• blue economy centre at TUM

“At TUM, we have long recognised that technology is the vessel that will carry our nation forward. However, we need to always remember that sustainability is what will lead us to the true destination,” he said.

Odede said the university had achieved important milestones this year, including setting up the Institute of Maritime and Seafaring Studies, which he noted is the only institution in the country offering degree-level nautical science training.

“This achievement places TUM firmly on the pedestal in advancing the blue economy, a sector that holds immense promise for Kenya’s sustainable development and global competitiveness,” he said.

He added that the launch of the School of Medicine was a strong step in improving Kenya’s access to qualified health workers. The council, he said, will continue backing programmes that grow research, support new technology and strengthen connections between academia and industry.

Vice Chancellor Leila Abubakar said this year’s graduation theme, ‘Sailing with Technology to chart Sustainable Futures’, reflects the university’s focus on preparing students for a fast-changing world.

She said TUM has continued upgrading buildings, improving access for students with disabilities and offering tailored support for their learning needs.

“We have continued to expand and renovate our facilities, including measures to accommodate persons with disabilities. In line with this, we are also offering specialised educational support and attachment opportunities for persons with disabilities, to gain the skills, experience, and knowledge needed to thrive,” she noted.