Kenya’s transport sector is accelerating its transition to green technologies, aiming to achieve zero emissions in a concerted effort to combat climate change. At a recent workshop on Sustainable and Green Ports held in Nairobi, Mohammed Daghar, Principal Secretary for Transport, reiterated the government’s commitment to sustainable practices in port development. Highlighting decarbonization, alternative energy adoption, digitalization, and capacity building as central pillars, Daghar outlined Kenya’s multi-faceted approach to creating environmentally friendly transport infrastructure.
Daghar, represented by Engineer Michael Muchiri, stressed Kenya’s dedication to environmental goals, despite the challenges faced by developing nations with resource limitations. “Kenya has made significant strides towards zero emissions in transportation,” Muchiri said. This effort requires substantial investment, underlining the importance of partnerships with international stakeholders to share knowledge, resources, and technical expertise.
Among these international partners, Kenya’s collaboration with the United States has been pivotal. The U.S. government, through departments like the Department of Transportation and the U.S. Department of State, is supporting Kenya’s green transition in the maritime sector. This relationship extends beyond technological exchanges, fostering strategic guidance and financial support for Kenya’s burgeoning green initiatives.
Emissions in Kenya’s Transport Sector and the Push for Decarbonization
The transport sector accounts for about 20% of Kenya’s greenhouse gas emissions, with shipping alone representing around 3% of global emissions. Given Kenya’s strategic position along the East African coast, its ports serve as major transit hubs for landlocked neighbors, including Uganda, Rwanda, Burundi, South Sudan, and parts of the Democratic Republic of Congo. In 2023, Kenya handled 35.98 million metric tons of cargo throughput and processed 1.62 million TEUs of containerized cargo, highlighting the need to address emissions associated with high cargo volumes.
To support sustainable port operations, Kenya has revised its Integrated National Transport Policy (INTP) to incorporate eco-friendly measures, laying the groundwork for a greener maritime transport framework. The Ministry of Roads and Transport has adopted climate-proofing standards in infrastructure projects, ensuring long-term resilience against climate impacts. Regulations have also been introduced to prevent and manage fuel spills, hazardous waste, and emissions in the maritime industry.
A key component of Kenya’s decarbonization strategy is shifting cargo transport from road to rail and using inland waterways where possible. By redirecting transport to rail, Kenya aims to decongest its roads, reduce air pollution, and minimize population exposure to emissions. Additionally, pipelines are being used more frequently for petroleum products, decreasing the need for heavy cargo trucks that contribute to road traffic and carbon emissions.
Embracing Greener Mobility and Technology Innovations
Since 2023, Kenya has pursued greener mobility solutions across its transport modes. In the automotive sector, investments in electric and fuel-efficient vehicles are underway, with the government promoting policies for the adoption of Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) to curb emissions from air travel. Market-based measures, such as emissions trading and carbon pricing, have been implemented to reduce the carbon footprint across Kenya’s transport industry.
Noise reduction measures for vehicles and aircraft are also being prioritized, improving both environmental quality and public health. The ministry is promoting advancements in aviation technology and SAF to encourage sustainable practices in Kenya’s aviation sector. These efforts are designed to position Kenya as a leading example of green transportation in Africa, setting benchmarks for other nations in the region.
Collaboration and Knowledge Exchange to Achieve Sustainable Transport
The workshop brought together officials from the U.S. Department of Transportation, the U.S. Department of State, the U.S. Embassy, and other global partners to explore sustainable transport strategies. Attendees included CEOs from Kenyan state departments, leaders from intergovernmental organizations, private sector representatives, and the media, fostering a platform for cross-sector collaboration and policy development.
The meeting underscored the importance of shared expertise and innovation, highlighting how sustainable transport could foster economic growth while reducing environmental impact. This gathering represents a significant step in Kenya’s journey toward building a climate-resilient, zero-emission transport sector.
In conclusion, Kenya’s ambitious strides towards a green transport sector reflect its commitment to global sustainability goals. The government’s initiatives across ports, road, rail, and air transport are setting a precedent for Africa’s sustainable development, with robust international partnerships helping to bolster the resources and knowledge needed to achieve these goals. As Kenya continues to innovate and implement green technology, it paves the way for a cleaner, greener future in transportation, setting a powerful example for neighboring countries and beyond.
