Shipping stakeholders have called for urgent investment in transport infrastructure to strengthen connectivity and help the Port of Lamu become a competitive regional gateway.
The appeal was made during a stakeholder engagement and commercial tour of the port on Monday, July 20, bringing together members of the Kenya Ships Agents Association (KSAA), shipping lines and the Kenya Ports Authority (KPA).
The meeting focused on strategies to accelerate business growth at Kenya’s second commercial seaport as vessel traffic and cargo volumes continue to rise.
The shipping agents cited inadequate cargo-handling equipment at the quay and container yard, while calling for the integration of documentation systems with those at the Port of Mombasa and other Kenyan ports to speed up cargo clearance.
The stakeholders agreed to intensify joint marketing efforts to attract more shipping lines and cargo through the Port of Lamu, positioning it as a strategic gateway serving Kenya, South Sudan, Ethiopia and the wider region.
KSAA Chairman Roger Dainty praised the operational improvements at the port, noting that increased efficiency had contributed to a rise in ship traffic.
“The improved efficiency at the Port of Lamu has significantly increased vessel calls, demonstrating the port’s growing potential as a regional maritime hub,” Dainty said.
According to KPA, the Port of Lamu has recorded more than 120 vessel calls this year, a milestone attributed to improved operational performance, modern infrastructure and its strategic location along major international shipping routes.
However, industry players said sustained growth would depend on strengthening transport links beyond the port.
KSAA Chief Executive Officer Elijah Mbaru urged the government to prioritise investment in road and rail infrastructure connecting the Port of Lamu to Kenya’s hinterland, as well as South Sudan and Ethiopia, describing the transport corridors as critical to enhancing the port’s competitiveness.
He said improved connectivity would lower logistics costs, facilitate faster cargo movement and make the port more attractive to regional and international traders.
The stakeholders concluded the engagement by committing to jointly market the Port of Lamu, expand its customer base and support its long-term growth as a regional logistics hub.
The industry’s calls come as the government has commended KPA for maintaining strong cargo growth despite disruptions affecting global shipping.
Speaking after KPA received a “Very Good” performance rating in the 2023/24 Performance Contracting cycle, Roads and Transport Cabinet Secretary Davis Chirchir praised the authority for increasing cargo volumes at both the ports of Mombasa and Lamu despite disruptions caused by the Red Sea crisis and geopolitical tensions in the Middle East.
Chirchir said continued investment in infrastructure modernisation, digitalisation of port operations and acquisition of modern cargo-handling equipment would be crucial in improving efficiency and customer satisfaction.
He urged KPA to sustain operational excellence to strengthen Kenya’s position as a leading maritime and logistics hub in East and Central Africa.
KPA Chief Executive Officer Capt. William Ruto attributed the authority’s performance to ongoing modernisation initiatives, digitalisation and customer-focused service delivery, saying the measures were helping streamline port operations and facilitate trade.
– By Daniel Kamau
