Research

Directorate of Oceans & Coastal Systems

Advancing sustainable marine resource management and coastal development

About the Directorate

The Directorate of Oceans and Coastal Systems and Blue Economy Research advances sustainable marine resource management and coastal development initiatives for Kenya's blue economy.

Kenya's marine and coastal zone has growing potential for port development, shipping infrastructure, and offshore investments to support national social and economic priorities.

This directorate generates research evidence to guide marine spatial planning, ocean governance, ecosystem protection, and long-term resilience of coastal and ocean systems.

Oceans and Coastal Systems Research
6 Core Focus Areas
1979Established
11+Stations & Centres
4Research Directorates

Research Focus Areas

Priority programmes published by KMFRI for the Directorate of Oceans and Coastal Systems and Blue Economy Research.

Marine Spatial Planning & Ocean Governance

Evidence generation for marine space-use planning, ocean governance frameworks, and integrated policy coordination across sectors.

Coastal Ecosystem Management & Protection

Research and monitoring to improve protection, restoration, and sustainable use of coastal and nearshore ecosystems.

Sustainable Blue Economy Development

Assessing sustainable growth pathways for ocean-based sectors while balancing livelihoods, investment, and ecosystem integrity.

Maritime Transport Infrastructure Research

Supporting science and planning for ports, shipping infrastructure, and related maritime systems in Kenya's coastal and offshore zones.

Marine Biodiversity Conservation

Generating data and tools for conserving marine biodiversity and improving ecosystem health across coastal and ocean environments.

Climate Change Impacts on Coastal Systems

Assessing climate-driven risks and adaptation options for coastal ecosystems, infrastructure, and ocean-dependent communities.