The Kenya Ports Authority (KPA) is set to achieve a historic milestone in 2024, with projections indicating that it will handle 2.2 million twenty-foot equivalent units (TEUs), marking a remarkable 20% growth compared to last year. This impressive feat underscores KPA’s significant strides in operational efficiency and infrastructure modernization.
KPA Managing Director Captain William Ruto revealed the positive outlook during a press briefing at the authority’s Mombasa headquarters. Ruto noted that cargo volumes had already surpassed 2023’s 1.6 million TEUs target, reaching 1.75 million TEUs in 2024. This upward trajectory represents an unprecedented level of growth for the port, reflecting the region’s economic vitality and improved logistics capabilities.
Driving Factors Behind Growth
Ruto attributed this remarkable growth to improved operational efficiency, the adoption of advanced technologies, and streamlined processes at the port. He highlighted the modernization of the Terminal Operating System and the acquisition of advanced equipment as key enablers of increased throughput and reduced cargo dwell time.
“The port was handling 1.4 million TEUs when I took over as CEO,” Ruto said. “By the end of my first year in 2023, we had achieved 1.6 million TEUs, a growth rate of 12% compared to the previous 0.4%.”
To support this rapid expansion, KPA is undertaking critical infrastructure upgrades. Plans to expand Container Terminal 1, specifically Berth Number 19B, are already in motion. The expansion will add 240 meters of quay length and increase capacity by 300,000 TEUs.
Enhanced Regional Connectivity
KPA has also focused on strengthening its role as a regional logistics hub, now serving over eight transit countries. The transit market has grown by 35%, with a 17% increase in cargo traffic through the port between 2022 and 2024. Key destinations such as Burundi recorded a 14% growth in cargo volumes.
This growth has been complemented by improvements in ship turnaround time and rail productivity. Despite geopolitical tensions in regions like the Red Sea, the port continues to attract new shipping services, demonstrating its resilience and strategic importance in global trade.
Tackling Logistics Challenges
Efforts to address long-standing challenges, such as high demurrage costs and delays, have borne fruit. The recently completed oil terminal has drastically reduced ship waiting times, alleviating cost burdens on consumers and contributing to a significant drop in fuel prices.
Agayo Ogambi, CEO of the Shippers Council of East Africa and chair of the Port Charter, emphasized the importance of monitoring port performance. He praised KPA’s achievements in reducing cargo dwell times, which have dropped from 4.5 days to 3.5 days in Nairobi and from over 79 hours in Mombasa.
However, Ogambi pointed out that maintaining system stability remains a critical challenge. “We urge the government to enhance redundancy plans and business continuity strategies to ensure seamless operations,” he said.
Strategic Vision for the Future
Looking ahead, KPA aims to solidify its position as a leader in sustainable port management across Africa. The authority has reaffirmed its commitment to operational efficiency, cost reduction, and environmental stewardship.
“The investments in modern infrastructure and technology are a testament to our dedication to economic growth and environmental sustainability,” Ruto said.
As KPA continues its modernization journey, the port’s enhanced capabilities are expected to support regional trade, reduce costs, and boost competitiveness, making Kenya a key player in global logistics. With these efforts, KPA is well-positioned to meet its ambitious 2024 targets and beyond.
