The Kenya Ports Authority (KPA) is intensifying collaboration with international shipping companies in a fresh push to increase cargo volumes and strengthen Kenya’s position as a leading maritime and logistics hub in East Africa.
The initiative comes as the country continues investing in port expansion, digital systems, and logistics infrastructure aimed at improving efficiency at the Ports of Mombasa and Lamu.
KPA Managing Director Capt. William Ruto on Friday held separate meetings with officials from Sea Sands Shipping LLC and Global Feeder Shipping to discuss opportunities for deeper cooperation in maritime transport and cargo handling.
Push for More International Liners
During the engagements, KPA urged more global shipping lines to utilise Kenyan ports, citing improvements in operational efficiency, reduced vessel turnaround times, and strategic access to major international trade routes.
According to the authority, ongoing modernization projects at the two ports are expected to significantly enhance cargo handling capacity and facilitate smoother movement of goods across the region.
“Kenya’s ports continue to offer reliable and competitive services supported by infrastructure expansion and improved logistics systems,” KPA said in a statement following the meetings.
Among the ongoing projects highlighted were berth expansion, additional yard space, and upgraded digital systems aimed at improving service delivery and trade facilitation.
Expansion of Regional Maritime Trade
Sea Sands Shipping revealed plans to expand its feeder shipping operations across East Africa through its Kenyan subsidiary, Hikaru Line, which currently operates under non-vessel operating common carrier (NVOCC) services.
The company’s Strategy Consultant, Capt. Adnan Ahmad, said the firm was investing in logistics corridors connecting Kenya to inland regional markets, with the goal of strengthening regional connectivity and supporting economic growth.
Global Feeder Shipping also reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening ties with KPA through enhanced feeder connectivity and maritime cooperation.
The company’s Vice President for Business Development and Projects, Waqar Ahmed Khan, noted that further collaboration with KPA would support efficient regional shipping operations and improve cargo movement within East Africa.
Increased Vessel Traffic Expected
KPA further disclosed that at least 55 vessels are expected to dock at the Ports of Mombasa and Lamu within the next two weeks.
The projected traffic includes 31 container vessels, 16 conventional cargo ships, four oil tankers, and four car carriers.
The incoming cargo is expected to include refined petroleum products, butane gas, fertiliser, palm oil, wheat, and motor vehicles.
The cargo movement comes at a time when stakeholders in the transport and energy sectors are closely monitoring supply chain stability ahead of the latest fuel price review by the Energy and Petroleum Regulatory Authority (EPRA).
Some transport operators have recently raised concerns over intermittent supply disruptions affecting logistics and distribution networks.
Strengthening Kenya’s Logistics Hub Status
KPA said the growing partnerships with international shipping firms, coupled with ongoing infrastructure upgrades, are expected to increase cargo throughput and reinforce Kenya’s role as a gateway for regional and international trade.
The authority added that enhanced intermodal transport systems and inland distribution networks would further improve cargo movement efficiency and support economic growth across the region.
