MOMBASA, Kenya — The Netherlands Deputy Ambassador to Kenya, Jaco Beerends, has commended the Kenya Ports Authority (KPA) for ongoing efforts to enhance efficiency and modernise infrastructure at the Port of Mombasa, describing the improvements as critical to regional trade and economic growth.
Beerends made the remarks during a courtesy visit to the Port of Mombasa, where he held discussions with KPA Managing Director Captain William Ruto.
The meeting focused on strengthening existing partnerships and identifying new areas of cooperation to further improve port operations and facilitate trade across the region.
Accompanied by Trademark Africa Country Director Lilian Mwai, the Dutch deputy envoy reaffirmed the Netherlands government’s commitment to supporting Kenya’s logistics and trade facilitation agenda, highlighting the importance of sustained investment in port infrastructure and the wider hinterland transport network.
“The Port of Mombasa plays a strategic role in regional trade, and continued investment is key to unlocking its full potential,” Beerends said.
The Netherlands Deputy Ambassador to Kenya, Mr. Jaco Beerends, has lauded Kenya Ports Authority for advancing efficiency and infrastructure development at the Port of Mombasa.The Deputy envoy spoke during a courtesy visit to the port of Mombasa, where he held discussions with
In his remarks, Capt. Ruto praised the Government of the Netherlands and Trademark Africa for their steadfast support in implementing transformative projects at the port and beyond.
He cited key partnerships at inland and regional nodes, including the Naivasha Inland Container Depot, navigation safety initiatives on Lake Victoria, the Busia One-Stop Border Post, as well as advancements in e-mobility and the blue economy, all of which are contributing to sustainable economic growth in the region.
Capt. Ruto also highlighted the ongoing installation of the Smart Gates System, a digital platform designed to streamline cargo clearance, reduce dwell times, and increase the overall tonnage handled at the Port of Mombasa.
Trademark Africa’s Mwai reiterated the organisation’s commitment to improving infrastructure and promoting seamless trade across East Africa, noting that efficient ports are essential for regional integration and competitiveness.
The Port of Mombasa is Kenya’s main maritime gateway and serves several landlocked countries in the region, making continued infrastructure development and operational efficiency central to regional trade and economic resilience.
