Mombasa Port Expansion: How Collaboration Can Unlock Millions in East Africa Trade

Kenya’s transport and logistics sector has been recognised as a key driver of economic transformation. Stakeholders at a June 22 forum called for stronger collaboration between government and industry players to enhance efficiency and competitiveness.

Transport Principal Secretary Mohamed Daghar underscored the sector’s central role in shaping the country’s economic future. He noted that the success of regional trade will depend on collaboration, innovation and the adoption of efficient systems.

Kenya Ports Authority (KPA) CEO Captain William Ruto highlighted ongoing port upgrades and stakeholder feedback as key to improving turnaround times at Mombasa. He stressed that continuous improvement remains essential for the port’s competitiveness.

Shippers Council Chair John Msafari welcomed closer government-private sector ties. He said such partnerships help ease supply chain friction and support smoother operations for importers and exporters.

The forum brought together multiple agencies. Participants called for sustained coordination to streamline the shipping and logistics sector and reduce bottlenecks that affect trade.

Port upgrades at Mombasa involve significant infrastructure works. These include terminal expansions, equipment modernisation and improvements to road and rail linkages that support cargo movement.

Efficient logistics systems are critical for Kenya’s position as a gateway to East and Central Africa. Delays at the port have direct implications for the cost and reliability of goods moving through the region.

The calls for collaboration align with broader efforts to strengthen public-private partnerships in infrastructure. Such cooperation can accelerate project delivery and improve service delivery at key transport nodes.

Industry players and government agencies agreed that innovation in systems and processes will be vital. This includes digital solutions for cargo tracking and clearance to reduce turnaround times further.

The forum reflects ongoing dialogue between stakeholders in the transport sector. Sustained engagement is expected to yield practical improvements in efficiency and competitiveness for Kenyan ports and logistics networks.