NAIROBI, Kenya — The Kenya Ports Authority (KPA) has launched a high-level engagement with government agencies and private sector stakeholders aimed at improving the movement of perishable exports through the Port of Mombasa.
The discussions focused on implementing a coordinated strategy to streamline the handling and shipment of horticultural produce, including fruits, vegetables, and cut flowers, which form a critical pillar of Kenya’s export economy.
According to KPA, the fresh produce sector generates between USD 1.5 billion and USD 2 billion annually, making it one of the country’s most valuable foreign exchange earners.
During the engagement, stakeholders reviewed measures intended to strengthen the port’s cold chain infrastructure and improve overall logistics efficiency. These include upgrading refrigerated container (reefer) capacity, accelerating cargo clearance procedures and enhancing coordination among government agencies responsible for border control and inspection.
Officials said the reforms are designed to ensure that perishable goods leave the country faster and reach international markets in optimal condition.
Industry players have long raised concerns about delays in cargo clearance and logistical bottlenecks that can lead to spoilage or quality degradation of agricultural exports. The horticulture sector is particularly sensitive to such disruptions due to the short shelf life of most products.
The Kenya Ports Authority noted that improving port operations and handling procedures would help reduce avoidable costs for exporters while maintaining the high standards required by international markets.
Speaking during the engagement, KPA Managing Director Captain William Ruto praised the collaboration between public institutions and private sector actors involved in the supply chain.
He said the partnership demonstrates growing coordination within Kenya’s logistics ecosystem and is key to sustaining improvements in port efficiency.
“The cooperation we are seeing among partner agencies reflects the maturity of Kenya’s logistics system and is critical in consolidating gains made in operational efficiency at the port,” he said.
Captain Ruto added that enhancing logistics around horticultural exports is essential for maintaining Kenya’s competitiveness in global markets, where buyers increasingly demand reliable supply chains and strict quality standards.
The Port of Mombasa serves as East Africa’s primary maritime gateway, handling cargo destined not only for Kenya but also for several landlocked countries in the region, including Uganda, Rwanda, South Sudan, and parts of the Democratic Republic of Congo.
Kenya’s horticulture sector is among the leading exporters of fresh produce to Europe, the Middle East, and Asia. Cut flowers, vegetables, and fruits remain especially popular in European markets, where Kenyan products supply major supermarkets and auction houses.
The KPA initiative forms part of broader efforts by the government and industry players to modernise export infrastructure, reduce post-harvest losses, and strengthen Kenya’s position as one of the world’s leading suppliers of fresh horticultural products.
