Mombasa:The Kenya Ports Authority (KPA) is actively pursuing strategic international partnerships to enhance regional maritime trade and improve port operational efficiency. KPA’s Chief Executive Officer, Capt. William Ruto, emphasized the Authority’s commitment to modernizing port infrastructure, adopting digital technologies, and expanding maritime and logistics networks.
According to Kenya News Agency, Capt. Ruto recently engaged in discussions with trade delegations from Britain, the Netherlands, Belgium, Argentina, and Japan. These meetings focused on infrastructure development, private sector investment, and enhancing operational efficiency across the maritime logistics chain.
The foreign delegations were led by prominent representatives, including Matt Baugh, the British High Commissioner to Kenya; Simone van den Broek, the Second Secretary for Trade and Investment from the Embassy of the Netherlands; Tom Neijens, Belgium’s Ambassador to Kenya; Cynthia Mulville, Chargé d’Affaires from the Embassy of Argentina; and Imafuku Takao, Director-General of the International Cooperation Bureau at Japan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
Capt. Ruto highlighted the importance of sustained collaboration with international partners, particularly the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA), which has significantly benefited the Port of Mombasa. The foreign envoys commended KPA’s efforts to strengthen Mombasa’s position as a regional maritime and logistics hub, emphasizing the importance of efficient port operations for continuous maritime trade.
The CEO noted ongoing modernization projects at the Mombasa and Lamu seaports. He underscored the potential of the Dongo Kundu Special Economic Zone and the Port of Lamu as strategic investment opportunities, inviting international partners to explore these ventures. Capt. Ruto also mentioned initiatives like the Smart Gate, carbon emissions reduction programs, and technology exchange as key areas of collaboration.
Capt. Ruto expressed satisfaction with the progress of the Dongo Kundu Berth One construction, which is part of the Special Economic Zones project. He welcomed international investment, particularly at the Port of Lamu, describing it as a “game changer” for Eastern African maritime trade. The Lamu port is part of the LAPSSET Corridor Program, aimed at improving connectivity between Kenya, Ethiopia, and South Sudan.
The discussions with international partners highlighted opportunities for trade, investment, and cooperation in the maritime sector. Capt. Ruto reiterated KPA’s dedication to advancing shipping, maritime trade, and the blue economy sector, which includes fisheries, aquaculture, tourism, and marine transport and logistics.
