Kenya has been elected to the Council of the International Seabed Authority (ISA) for the 2027–2030 term, marking a significant step in the country’s engagement with global ocean governance and the regulation of seabed resources beyond national jurisdictions.
The announcement was made by Foreign Affairs Principal Secretary Korir Sing’oei on August 1, 2026, during the 31st session of the ISA Assembly held in Kingston, Jamaica. The ISA, established under the 1982 United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS), oversees mineral-related activities in international seabed areas and develops policies to ensure their sustainable use and protection.
Enhanced Role in Seabed Governance
Membership on the ISA Council places Kenya among key decision-makers responsible for setting rules on exploration and potential exploitation of seabed mineral resources. The ISA currently has 172 members, including 171 countries and the European Union, with council members serving four-year terms.
PS Sing’oei highlighted that Kenya’s election reflects the global community’s trust in the nation’s commitment to UNCLOS and sustainable ocean management. He stated, “This election reflects the confidence of the international community in Kenya’s longstanding commitment to the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea, rules-based ocean governance, sustainable management of the common heritage of humankind, and advancing maritime scientific research.”
Supporting Regional and Global Blue Economy Initiatives
Kenya plans to leverage its new position to advance the implementation of outcomes from the Nairobi Sustainable Blue Economy Conference and the Mombasa Eleventh Our Ocean Conference, which Kenya hosted in 2026 as the first African nation to do so.
Sing’oei emphasized Kenya’s dedication to working closely with ISA members to align with UNCLOS mandates, stating that the country will continue promoting marine conservation, scientific research, and equitable resource management.
Through this council seat, Kenya aims to influence international seabed governance while boosting its blue economy agenda and fostering sustainable use of ocean resources in collaboration with other ISA members.
