I’m a seasoned diplomat and consensus builder with long hands-on experience in maritime governance, shipping and policy management of the maritime industry gained through an illustrious work experience spanning over 37 years. I am also a champion for diversity and inclusivity, a confident decision maker and negotiator.
Currently working as an advisor for Maritime & Blue Economy in the Executive Office of the President, my role is to render expertise in the development of the policies and strategies needed for the development and management of Kenya’s marine resources, provide support towards building regional and international collaborative frameworks and networks including national maritime capacity for enhanced maritime safety and security, and the development of national maritime skills. My previous work experience includes:
I have tested and proven leadership capabilities at both the national, regional and international fronts. My experience as Chair of IMO Technical Committee availed me invaluable insight and experience in consensus building in a multilateral environment which IMO typifies. Served as the Vice Chair (Africa) for the International Maritime Satellite Organization based in London United Kingdom in 2018. Steered the development, drafting and adoption of the IMO Guidelines for the Prevention and Suppression of Smuggling of Wildlife on Ships Engaged in International Maritime Traffic, which were adopted during the 46thsession of the IMO FAL Committee sitting in May 2022. The evidence of my dedicated service to the local and international shipping industry is in the form of recognitions and awards I have received over time, including the AU Chairperson award of the African Woman of the year 2018.
R Adm Matsane was born 24 December in Bushbuckridge, Mpumalanga in South Africa. He attended primary and high school in the same area. He joined the South African Navy in 1998. He completed his bachelor degree at the faculty of Military Science, University of Stellenbosch. He completed his Joint Staff Course at Defence Service Staff College in Wellington, India. He completed his Masters at the University of Madras in India. He served as Communication officer and operations Officer onboard SAS DRAKENSBERG. R Adm Matsane served as the Acting Navigation Officer and Anti-Air Warfare Officer on board frigates, SAS ISANDLWANA and SAS SPIEONKOP respectively. He served as the Operation Officer and Executive Officer onboard the submarine, SAS CHARLOTTE MAXEKE. He commanded a submarine SAS QUEEN MODJADJI I. He served as the Submarine Squadron Commander also known as Senior Submarine Officer. He completed Security and Defence Studies Programme in 2019 at the South African National Defence College. He was Director maritime Warfare for the past three and half years just before recently appointed as the Flag Officer Fleet and promoted to Rear Admiral. R Adm Matsane sailed on tall ship B.E. ESMERALDA from Chile. He sailed a Cape to Rio race in 2003 and several yacht races around South Africa on a 44ft yacht, UMOYA OMUCHA.