The Kenya Ports Authority has intensified efforts to expand the port of Mombasa due to increasing cargo volumes passing through the facility.
The port is currently constructing a new berth, according to an update released by KPA on Sunday, June 7.
KPA confirmed that the development of berth 19B is progressing as part of a comprehensive strategy to improve efficiency and meet growing demand at the port.
“As cargo movements through East Africa’s primary maritime entrance continue to consistently increase, Kenya Ports Authority is advancing with essential infrastructure initiatives designed to match this demand. One such initiative is Berth 19B, a significant quay extension now being developed at the Port of Mombasa,” KPA stated.
According to KPA, the new structure will provide 240 metres of additional quay length and include a draft depth of 15 metres, capable of accommodating larger container vessels of approximately 45,000 deadweight tonnage.
“The new berth extends the quay by 240 metres and features a 15-metre draft, constructed to contemporary standards that enable it to serve container vessels up to around 45,000 deadweight tonnage,” the authority explained.
KPA further highlighted that the expansion targets operational difficulties caused by the growing number of larger vessels visiting the Port of Mombasa, which necessitate deeper channels and extended berthing areas for smooth operations.
Upon completion, the berth is projected to contribute an additional handling capacity of 300,000 twenty-foot equivalent units (TEUs) per year, thereby enhancing cargo processing capabilities at the port.
This development forms part of KPA’s long-term investment strategy focused on expanding port infrastructure in anticipation of demand and reinforcing the Port of Mombasa’s status as the favored logistics and trade center for East and Central Africa.
The expansion occurs alongside continuous growth in cargo throughput at the port, which serves multiple regional countries, including Uganda, Rwanda, South Sudan, the Democratic Republic of Congo, and sections of northern Tanzania.
The port has experienced increased activity recently, with many more vessels expected to arrive in the upcoming months.
In addition to the berth construction, KPA is implementing modernization initiatives at the Port of Mombasa, aiming to establish it as an environmentally conscious maritime hub.
The authority has discreetly implemented its comprehensive Green Ports Policy, introducing extensive infrastructure enhancements across East Africa’s largest maritime facility.
A key aspect of these changes is the implementation of a shore power technology system that enables large international cargo ships to completely shut down their noisy, high-pollution diesel engines while docked and connect directly to shore-based electricity.
Furthermore, the French government has announced intentions to invest over Ksh106 billion in a new port terminal expansion.
The initiative will concentrate on renovating and enhancing two terminals at the Port of Mombasa as part of broader efforts to strengthen Kenya’s transportation and logistics framework.
This agreement will also expand port capacity, modernize cargo management systems, and enhance inland transportation networks connecting Kenya to the broader East and Central African region.