MOMBASA, Kenya—Some of the biggest and longest cargo ships are among the many calling vessels arriving at the Port of Mombasa.
Y News understands that a port that receives a lot of call vessels usually has an extensive shipping infrastructure, effective services, a better location, and advantageous logistics.
This makes the port a bustling centre for marine commerce. In addition to potentially requiring efficient management to deal with congestion, this can result in increased economic activity.
In recent days, the Port of Mombasa has received some of the biggest and longest cargo ships, exemplified by the recent arrival of the MV Jolly Bianco, which made its maiden call to the port.
Operated by Messina Shipping Line, the vessel measures 283 meters in length and 40 meters in beam and carries 6,328 TEUs.
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Kenya Ports Authority (KPA) General Manager Corporate Services Edward Kamau, while presenting a certificate of first call to the vessel’s captain, Salvatore Cammareri, emphasised the Authority’s commitment to enhancing the port’s efficiency and responsiveness to international shipping needs.
“Port expansion programs, including the new container terminal and the acquisition of modern equipment, have notably enhanced port operations, positioning Mombasa as a key destination for international trade. The port has recorded a remarkable increase in vessel calls this year,” Kamau explained.
Meanwhile, Y News has established that 55 vessels will dock at the Port of Mombasa in the next two weeks.
During this period, KPA disclosed that the port will handle 29 container cargo vessels, 16 conventional cargo vessels, seven oil tankers, and three car carriers.
This even as it emerged that the Port of Mombasa has seen significant improvements over the past decade, driven by the Mombasa Port and Northern Corridor Community Charter (MPNCCC), which has enhanced stakeholder collaboration and port efficiency.
Why the Port of Mombasa is ranked top in the region
During a media briefing, KPA Managing Director Captain William Ruto remarked on the Charter’s10-year journey.
“The MPNCCC has been a key driver in enhancing stakeholder collaboration, leading to remarkable improvements in port operations. As we celebrate ten years, the Charter’s collective efforts have significantly boosted efficiency and infrastructure development, positioning Mombasa as a more competitive port in the region,” Captain Ruto stated.
The MPNCCC, a collaboration between government agencies, the private sector, and cargo handlers, has facilitated vital improvements such as implementing the Single Customs Territory (SCT) and the High-Speed Weigh in Motion (HSWIM) system.
Others include the development of the Standard Gauge Railway and Inland Container Depots (ICDs) in Kenya, Rwanda, and Uganda.
Agayo Ogambi, CEO of the Shippers Council of East Africa and Chairman of the MPNCCC Steering Committee, noted that the efforts have reduced non-tariff barriers and improved infrastructure, improving efficiency across the Northern Corridor.
