The United States and Kenya have agreed to impose visa restrictions on foreign nationals benefiting from illegal, unreported and unregulated (IUU) fishing activities, as Washington announced more than US$96 million (about KSh 12.4 billion) in maritime security commitments.
The measures were unveiled during the 11th Our Ocean Conference in Mombasa and mark the first time the United States has used visa restrictions specifically targeting individuals linked to IUU fishing.
The new agreement aims to strengthen international efforts against illegal fishing, which officials say costs coastal communities and economies billions of dollars annually while damaging marine ecosystems.
The US commitments include more than US$52 million (about KSh 6.7 billion) dedicated specifically to combating IUU fishing across ocean regions where the practice threatens fisheries, livelihoods and environmental stability.
Ruth Perry announced the package, describing the measures as part of a broader effort to improve maritime security and protect sustainable fishing.
More Read
The partnership with Kenya will focus on preventing foreign actors involved in illegal fishing operations from accessing the United States through targeted visa restrictions.
IUU fishing has become a major global challenge, affecting food security, marine conservation and the economies of countries that depend heavily on fishing communities.
Kenya, with its strategic position along the Indian Ocean coastline, has been working to strengthen maritime surveillance and protect marine resources from illegal exploitation.
More Read
The US funding package is expected to support efforts including maritime security initiatives, enforcement capacity and cooperation among countries facing threats from illegal fishing networks.
The announcement comes as governments and international organisations increase pressure on operators accused of exploiting marine resources without proper authorisation, reporting catches or following conservation rules.
Officials said the new measures would help promote accountability while supporting sustainable use of ocean resources.
