Kenya Ports Authority (KPA) continues to position the Port of Mombasa as a regional maritime hub through strategic partnership with global shipping lines.
KPA Managing Director Captain William Ruto said the recent expansion program has witnessed improved connectivity, higher cargo volumes, and enhanced operational efficiency.
Speaking during a meeting with Thailand’s Regional Container Lines (RCL) Vice President Derek Png in Mombasa yesterday, Ruto said the port will continue to invest in expansion and equipment modernization to make it more efficient.
“We welcome partnership with RCL, as this is in line with KPA’s broader strategy of attracting reputable global carriers,” said Capt. Ruto.
Png said RCL plans to expand its operations into East Africa, with the Port of Mombasa identified as a key regional hub.
According to an RCL official, the company operates a diverse fleet ranging from vessels of 400 twenty-foot equivalent units (TEUs) to ships with capacities of up to 12,000 TEUs, allowing it to serve both regional and long-haul trade routes.
“We have more than 40 years of experience in the global shipping industry and a strong track record in feeder services,” Png added.
The meeting also explored potential areas of collaboration within the logistics and maritime sector, with discussions focusing on how enhanced feeder services can support regional trade growth and strengthen East Africa’s links to global markets.
Maritime stakeholders say the entrance of RCL into the East African market will enhance feeder connectivity, improve cargo movement, and further entrench the Port of Mombasa’s role as the region’s largest and busiest maritime gateway, benefitting KPA and the wider regional economy.
Present during the meeting was RCL’s shipping agent, Sharaf Shipping Agency (K) Limited, led by the General Manager, Kaushik Bhattacharya.
The agency currently operates at the Port of Mombasa, providing an established operational base for RCL as it prepares to scale up its presence in the region.
By Mohamed Hassan
