LAMU, Kenya — The Kenya Ports Authority (KPA) has announced a surge in vessel traffic at the Port of Lamu, signalling growing confidence among global shipping lines and renewed momentum in regional trade.
Speaking during a media briefing at the port, KPA Managing Director William Ruto said early indicators point to increased cargo volumes and a rising number of vessel calls, positioning Lamu as an emerging transshipment hub along the East African coast.
The MD noted a steady increase in car carrier vessels choosing Lamu as their preferred destination. He revealed that another vessel is expected next week to discharge about 5,000 motor vehicles, describing the development as a strong signal of expanding commercial activity.
“This is a clear indication of growing confidence among shipping lines in the port’s capacity and efficiency,” he said.
The latest boost comes after the arrival of MV Grande Florida Palermo, operated by Grimaldi Lines, which made its maiden call at the port carrying 3,800 motor vehicle units alongside assorted spare parts.
The vessel’s arrival follows closely behind another car carrier, MV Grande Auckland, which docked a week earlier and discharged 469 motor vehicles. According to KPA, the Port of Lamu has handled 74 vessels since the start of the year.
Performance data from the authority shows a sharp increase in cargo throughput, with the port recording 799,161 metric tonnes last year, a significant jump from 74,380 metric tonnes recorded in 2024. The growth has largely been driven by containerised cargo.
Analysts say the rise in vessel traffic reflects improving infrastructure, operational capacity, and strategic positioning of the port within regional logistics networks, particularly as Kenya seeks to diversify cargo routes beyond the Port of Mombasa.
The Port of Lamu, part of the broader LAPSSET corridor project, is expected to play a critical role in facilitating trade for landlocked countries in the region, including South Sudan and Ethiopia.
With more shipping lines reportedly introducing regular services to Lamu, KPA projects sustained growth in cargo volumes in the coming years, reinforcing the port’s role in boosting Kenya’s maritime trade and economic development.
