MOMBASA, Kenya-The Port of Mombasa has recorded its highest-ever container discharge performance after workers offloaded 863 containers from the MV Aniello in a single shift.
The Kenya Ports Authority said the milestone was achieved on Monday before the team completed the discharge of all 1,005 containers aboard the vessel within one and a half shifts.
KPA Chief Executive Officer Captain William Ruto personally piloted the MV Aniello through the Kilindini Channel and safely berthed it at Berth No. 22.
Cargo-handling operations started at about 3pm, bringing together vessel planners, crane operators, truck drivers, yard personnel and supervisors.
The workers operated in four coordinated teams to maintain a continuous workflow and reduce the vessel’s turnaround time.
By 11pm, the team had discharged 863 containers, surpassing the port’s previous single-shift record and setting a new benchmark for container handling.
Operations continued overnight, with the remaining cargo discharged by 2.40am the following day. The entire consignment of 1,005 containers was cleared within one and a half shifts.
Captain Ruto attributed the performance to investments in modern cargo-handling equipment, technology-driven systems and continuing improvements in operational processes.
He also credited the port’s skilled workforce for maintaining coordination throughout the exercise.
The record comes as the Port of Mombasa seeks to improve efficiency and handle increasing cargo volumes serving Kenya and neighbouring countries.
Faster vessel turnaround allows shipping lines to reduce operational costs, maintain sailing schedules and improve the reliability of cargo deliveries.
The Port of Mombasa is a major gateway for imports and exports destined for Kenya and landlocked countries in East and Central Africa, including Uganda, Rwanda, Burundi, South Sudan and the Democratic Republic of Congo.
KPA said the latest performance demonstrated the port’s growing capacity to manage large cargo volumes and strengthen its competitiveness in regional and international maritime logistics.
The authority has been upgrading equipment and operational systems at the container terminal to reduce congestion and shorten the time ships spend at the port.
