The Kenya Ports Authority (KPA) has received a significant boost to its equipment modernization program with the arrival of four new Ships to Shore Cranes (STSs) at the Port of Mombasa, which serves as the key gateway to East and Central Africa.
These four advanced STSs, designed to replace the recently retired cranes at berth 16, mark a new era in equipment capability. Unlike their predecessors, these modern STSs have the capacity for twin lift operations as opposed to the old generation’s single lift capacity.
This acquisition of cutting-edge equipment is a strategic step in KPA‘s efforts to maintain a competitive edge in the regional port landscape. The Managing Director of KPA, Captain William Ruto, emphasizes that this modernized fleet will lead to a twofold increase in berth productivity and a nearly 40 percent reduction in ship working time at the berths.
Captain Ruto underlines that the ongoing equipment upgrade initiative encompasses not only the STSs but also the procurement of new reach stackers, empty container handlers, terminal tractors, and more. This comprehensive approach aims to enhance efficiency and keep pace with the rising cargo volumes at the ports.
The Port of Lamu, also known as the Lamu South Sudan Ethiopia Transport (LAPSSET) corridor, is another focal point of development. This port, a pivotal project within Kenya Vision 2030, aims to catalyze regional economies through enhanced trade, integration, and connectivity spanning South Sudan and landlocked Ethiopia.
Captain Ruto emphasizes that the drive behind this equipment and infrastructure modernization is to prevent the ports from succumbing to congestion due to outdated facilities. He emphasizes KPA’s commitment to reposition the Mombasa and Lamu seaports for optimal efficiency.
To complement these advancements, KPA is actively training reach stacker operators, with 30 out of the planned 121 operators having already completed their training. This ensures that the workforce possesses the necessary skills to operate the new state-of-the-art yard equipment.
In comparison to the previous generation of STSs, the modern cranes boast superior features, such as twin lift spreaders capable of handling two containers per move, as opposed to the previous single lift capacity.
Captain Ruto reiterates that KPA’s multibillion-shilling investments are geared towards enhancing marine terminal capacity and signify the organization’s commitment to improving services for the benefit of all port stakeholders. The overarching goal is to serve these stakeholders more efficiently and cost-effectively while remaining competitive in the regional port landscape.
The focus on equipment acquisition and modernization remains a central strategy to enhance operational efficiency and replace outdated equipment, further underlining KPA’s commitment to evolution and progress.
Furthermore, Captain Ruto reveals that the construction of the Shimoni fishing port project in Kwale County, with an estimated cost of Ksh 2.6 billion, is well underway. This pioneering fishing port is poised to tap into the blue economy sector, adding value to the fishing industry.
Captain Ruto anticipates that the fishing port will introduce new opportunities for Kenyans, especially those in Kwale County, and improve economic prospects for the region at large. Committed to expedited progress, KPA aims to complete this significant project within 12 months, half the originally estimated timeframe of 24 months, following a directive from President William Ruto.
The enhanced pace of work aligns with the presidential directive and underscores KPA’s dedication to realizing this vital seaport project. Plans are also in motion to construct a modern marine fish auction market, equipped with electro-mechanical and refrigeration facilities, catering to the needs of the local fishing community.
In Captain Ruto’s words, the new fishing port project holds the potential to drive economic growth and uplift the living standards of the coastal region. The Shimoni Fishing Port’s development paves the way for large-scale exploitation of the fishing industry, facilitated by a ready market and value addition, fostering the establishment of a special economic zone.
