The Port of Mombasa this week played host to delegations from both the US and China to be updated on the ongoing port modernization and emerging logistic opportunities
A key area in the ongoing innovation is the digital transformation which is a key pillar in positioning the Port of Mombasa as a world-class logistics hub.
On Wednesday hosted Chargé d’Affaires Susan Burns of the United States Embassy for discussions on strengthening bilateral cooperation in port modernization, sustainability and emerging logistics opportunities.
KPA General Manager for Infrastructure Development, Eng. Mathews Amuti, received Ms. Burns on behalf of Managing Director Captain William Ruto during a briefing at the KPA headquarters. He was joined by Evelyn Mwamure, General Manager for Corporate Research, Planning and Compliance, and Mohamed Golicha, Head of Corporate Development.
The delegation was taken through presentations on key infrastructure projects currently underway, including the modernization of Berths 1–10, ongoing works at Berths 11–14, and the planned concurrent construction of Berths 23 and 24 to support rising regional cargo volumes.
Also in the presentation is the progress at the Dongo Kundu Special Economic Zone (SEZ), and the role of the Lamu Port in sustaining cargo flow during recent regional disruptions.
The Dongo Kundu Special economic Zone is making significant progress especially with the opening for use of the Dongo Kundu By –Pass, a key component of the SEZ.
The SEZ project is already attracting investor interest, particularly in areas like manufacturing and oil refining. It is moving forward with infrastructure development, including land development, port facilities, and vocational training for the local workforce. This multi-sectoral hub aims to boost Kenya’s industrial growth and position it as a regional manufacturing and logistics hub in line with the country’s Vision 2030 goals.
The presentation further highlighted emerging areas such as e-mobility, cold logistics, green-port initiatives, and ongoing development of lake and inland ports including Kisumu, Homa Bay, Muhuru Bay, and the proposed Sio Port, where environmental monitoring is being undertaken to enhance marine safety.
KPA welcomed the visit, noting that deeper cooperation with the United States would support efforts to expand port capacity, strengthen operational efficiency and advance sustainable infrastructure development.
Meanwhile, the Kenya Ports Authority Chairman Benjamin Tayari on Wednesday met a delegation from Zhejiang Smarter Port Technology Co., Ltd. to explore areas of cooperation aimed at advancing KPA’s digital transformation agenda.
The team was led by Chairlady Ms. Lingling Wang, Chief Operating Officer Ms. Xeofen Wu, and Overseas Sales Manager Mr. Yuqi Yang.
The discussions centred on strengthening port infrastructure, enhancing efficiency, and expanding technology-driven solutions in line with the KPA Ports Master Plan 2018–2047.
The meeting also reviewed long-term plans to integrate modern systems across maritime operations, security management, and cargo-handling processes, including digital upgrades of key terminals.
Tayari emphasized the role of continuous innovation, strategic partnerships, and technology-led solutions in improving efficiency and competitiveness across KPA facilities.
“Digital transformation remains a key pillar in positioning the Port of Mombasa as a world-class logistics hub. KPA continues to prioritise partnerships that reinforce innovation, technology adoption, and operational excellence as part of its mission to deliver efficient, secure, and globally competitive port services,” said Tayari.
The delegation commended KPA’s modernization efforts and expressed interest in supporting current and future initiatives to enhance port operations
