The Port of Mombasa handled 36.2 million tonnes of cargo in 2023—a 12% year-on-year increase—reclaiming its position as East Africa’s busiest maritime gateway. The Kenya Ports Authority (KPA) credited efficiency reforms, including 24/7 operations, digital clearing via Simba system, and reduced dwell time from 14 to 5 days. Transit cargo for Uganda, Rwanda, and DRC rose by 18%, aided by improved Standard Gauge Railway (SGR) connectivity. Meanwhile, Dar es Salaam port grew by just 7%, hampered by congestion. KPA reported Ksh28.5 billion in revenue, up 15%. Plans to expand Berth 19 and deepen the channel to 17 meters are underway. The World Bank praised Mombasa’s turnaround as vital for regional trade competitiveness under AfCFTA.
Mombasa Port Records 12% Cargo Growth, Outpacing Dar es Salaam
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