The Mombasa port has recorded a remarkable surge in transit cargo volumes, thanks to the Kenya Ports Authority’s (KPA) concerted efforts to boost efficiency. In the first half of 2024, the port saw an 18.2% growth in cargo volume compared to the same period last year, despite facing stiff competition from other regional ports.
Mombasa Port’s Rising Popularity
Mombasa port has traditionally been the gateway for East African countries, with Uganda being its largest transit market. However, Uganda’s growth was modest at 8.2% during this period. The impressive overall growth was driven by increased traffic from other Northern Corridor countries, such as Rwanda and Burundi. This growth underscores the success of KPA’s initiatives to enhance the port’s attractiveness and reliability.
KPA Managing Director Captain William Ruto attributed the port’s improved performance to strategic efficiency improvements. Despite the Northern Corridor’s longer distance for Rwandan and Burundian importers compared to the Central Corridor, which serves Dar es Salaam port, the faster and more reliable services at Mombasa port have made it a preferred choice.
Efficiency Improvements and Strategic Advantages
The efficiency at Mombasa port is evident in its ship turnaround time. In May 2024, the average turnaround time at Mombasa port was four days, a stark contrast to Dar es Salaam port, where turnaround times reached up to 25 days earlier this year. This significant difference has made Mombasa port a more attractive option for shipping lines, which have started offloading cargo at Mombasa for transhipment to Tanzania and Indian Ocean islands that rely on Dar es Salaam port.
The congestion at Dar es Salaam and Djibouti ports has further accentuated Mombasa port’s strategic advantage. With ships facing prolonged delays at these ports, many shipping lines have shifted their preference to Mombasa, ensuring timely delivery of goods and reducing overall transportation costs.
Enhanced Infrastructure and Future Prospects
KPA’s investments in infrastructure have played a crucial role in bolstering the port’s capacity and efficiency. The ongoing expansion of the port’s facilities, coupled with the adoption of advanced cargo handling technologies, has enabled Mombasa to handle larger volumes of cargo more effectively.
Additionally, KPA has focused on improving the Northern Corridor’s logistics and transportation network, ensuring smooth and efficient movement of goods from the port to inland destinations. These efforts have not only reduced the time and cost of transit but also enhanced the overall reliability of the supply chain.
Regional Impact and Economic Benefits
The surge in cargo volumes at Mombasa port has significant implications for the region’s economy. As more countries opt for Mombasa as their primary gateway, the port is poised to become a central hub for trade and commerce in East Africa. This increased activity is expected to drive economic growth, create job opportunities, and foster regional integration.
For landlocked countries like Rwanda and Burundi, Mombasa port’s efficiency gains offer a critical lifeline for their imports and exports. By providing a reliable and cost-effective transit route, the port supports these countries’ economic development and integration into the global economy.
Conclusion
The significant growth in transit cargo volumes at Mombasa port highlights the success of the Kenya Ports Authority’s efforts to enhance efficiency and reliability. Amid congestion at regional competitors like Dar es Salaam and Djibouti ports, Mombasa has emerged as a preferred choice for many shipping lines and importers. With continued investments in infrastructure and strategic improvements, Mombasa port is well-positioned to solidify its role as a key trade hub in East Africa, driving economic growth and regional integration.
