NAIROBI, Kenya — The Port of Lamu is set to witness a surge in vessel calls in the coming days, a development expected to further strengthen the port’s role as a leading transshipment hub in the region and drive regional trade.
Speaking at a media briefing at the Port, Kenya Ports Authority (KPA) Managing Director, Capt. William Ruto, said early indicators point to increasing cargo volumes being shipped through Lamu.
He noted that major shipping lines are showing growing confidence in the port’s capacity and operational efficiency.
“The steady rise in vessel traffic, particularly car carriers choosing Lamu as their preferred destination, reflects strong commercial activity and increasing trust from shippers,” Capt. Ruto said.
He highlighted that the port expects another car carrier next week to discharge 5,000 motor vehicle units, signaling further growth in operations.
Capt. Ruto presided over the maiden call of the MV Grande Florida Palermo, operated by Grimaldi Lines, which docked at the port carrying 3,800 motor vehicles and assorted spare parts.
The Port of Lamu is geared up for a spike in vessel calls in the coming days, a development that is expected to inject fresh momentum into regional trade and strengthen the Port’s position as a leading transshipment hub in the region.Speaking at a media briefing at the Port of
This comes just a week after her sister vessel, MV Grande Auckland, discharged 469 motor vehicles.
According to KPA, the port has recorded 74 vessel calls so far this year, compared to a total cargo throughput of 799,161 metric tons in 2025, a significant jump from 74,380 metric tons in 2024, largely driven by containerized cargo.
“With more shipping lines introducing regular services to Lamu, we anticipate sustained growth in cargo volumes in the coming years,” Capt. Ruto added, reaffirming the port’s rising stature in global shipping networks.