MOMBASA, Kenya — The Kenya Ports Authority (KPA) has marked the maiden call of the container vessel M.V. Nara at the Port of Mombasa, a move expected to strengthen maritime trade links between South Asia and East Africa.
The vessel operates under Akkon Line’s East Africa Service (EAS), a newly introduced shipping route aimed at enhancing cargo connectivity between the Indian Subcontinent and the East African coast.
During the ceremony, KPA Managing Director William Ruto, a career master mariner, personally navigated the ship into port before presenting a certificate of first call to the vessel’s master, Mustafa Olgun, in recognition of the ship’s inaugural visit.
“Mombasa Port remains committed to providing world-class services to our shipping partners and enhancing Kenya’s position as a key maritime hub,” Captain Ruto said.
“Every maiden call strengthens regional trade and reflects our strategic vision for East Africa’s shipping sector,” he added.
New shipping service connecting South Asia and East Africa
The service is operated by Akkon Line, a Turkish container shipping company expanding its presence across emerging global trade corridors.
Under the new East Africa Service, vessels will operate on a bi-weekly schedule connecting major South Asian ports — Nhava Sheva Port, Mundra Port, and Karachi — with Dar es Salaam and Mombasa in East Africa.
The route is expected to improve cargo movement across the regions while supporting trade flows involving manufactured goods, agricultural exports, and industrial inputs.
Strengthening Mombasa’s regional trade role
Both Akkon Line and Rais Shipping Services, the vessel’s local agent, thanked the Kenya Ports Authority for its continued cooperation and efficient port operations.
Officials said the launch of the East Africa Service further reinforces the Port of Mombasa’s strategic position as a maritime gateway for East and Central Africa.
The port serves as a key logistics hub handling cargo destined for several landlocked countries in the region, including Uganda, Rwanda, South Sudan, and the Democratic Republic of Congo.
