Securing the seas.
@HMSDragon and @RFALymeBay's visit to Mombasa showcased how the UK and Kenya are working together to tackle global security challenges, protect trade routes and strengthen maritime security.
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#GoFarGoTogether@kdfinfo
Cabinet Secretary for Roads and Transport, Hon. Davis Chirchir has lauded Kenya Ports Authority’s continued digital transformation and smart port initiatives that are critical to enhancing operational efficiency, automation, data-driven decision-making, security and customer experience.
The CS singled out projects like the installation of Smart Gates, upgrading of the Terminal Operating System and investment in the Dongo Kundu Special Economic Zones as initiatives that advance digitalization placing Mombasa firmly at the top of the most competitive facilities in the region, when he presided over the official opening of the 5th Annual Engineers Conference 2026 in Naivasha.
The event brought together engineers, industry leaders, government agencies, and other stakeholders under the theme, “Engineering Transformation: Scaling Green Growth, Smart Infrastructure and Resilient Futures.”
To keep with the theme, CS Chirchir underscored the need for the engineering profession to move quickly from traditional to digital and from carbon-heavy to green, to remain resilient for the future.
He highlighted how AI-assisted design, digital twins and Internet of Things (IOT) sensors are already helping reduce errors, shorten design cycles, enable real-time monitoring, support predictive maintenance and improve asset performance.
For KPA, engineering is at the heart of the transformation of Kenya’s maritime gateway. From ongoing port expansions and modernisation of berths to the development of resilient infrastructure and deployment of advanced cargo-handling systems, engineers play a critical role in designing, building, maintaining and ensuring the safety and efficiency of port infrastructure.
At KPA, such innovation underscores the importance of collaboration between engineers, government agencies, industry and other stakeholders in building infrastructure that is not only efficient today, but smart, sustainable, safe and resilient for generations to come.
The conference provides a platform for powerful conversations, new ideas and meaningful collaborations on the critical role of engineering in driving Kenya’s infrastructure development, energy transition, green growth and resilience.
South Korea has reaffirmed its support for the Kenya Ports Authority's (KPA) port modernisation programme, strengthening cooperation in technology transfer, infrastructure development and capacity building as the Authority advances its digital transformation agenda.
The commitment was made on Tuesday when the Republic of Korea's Ambassador to Kenya, Kang Hyung-shik, paid a courtesy call on KPA Chief Executive Officer Captain William Ruto to discuss areas of continued collaboration between Kenya and South Korea in the maritime sector.
Ambassador Kang said the longstanding bilateral relationship between the two countries continued to create opportunities for cooperation in infrastructure development, innovation and knowledge exchange.
He said South Korea would continue supporting KPA through the sharing of advanced port technologies, digital solutions and best practices in maritime operations.
Captain Ruto welcomed the continued partnership, saying KPA has benefited from strong relationships with Korean shipping lines, logistics firms and maritime stakeholders that have facilitated growth in international trade through the Port of Mombasa.
He said the Authority would continue strengthening collaboration with leading Korean ports to accelerate digitalisation, improve service delivery and enhance the competitiveness of the Port of Mombasa as the preferred gateway to East and Central Africa.
The meeting builds on the growing economic partnership between Kenya and South Korea, following President William Ruto's 2024 State Visit to Seoul, which focused on expanding trade, investment and technology cooperation.
Efforts to reduce cargo clearance delays at the Port of Mombasa gained significant momentum on Monday after the heads of the Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) and Kenya Ports Authority (KPA) agreed to deepen collaboration through systems integration and technology-driven solutions designed to improve cargo flow and trade efficiency.
KRA Commissioner General Adan Mohamed and KPA Chief Executive Officer Capt. William Ruto said closer cooperation between the two agencies will focus on automation, data sharing and the harmonization of operational processes to eliminate bottlenecks, facilitate seamless cargo movement, reduce delays and enhance service delivery for importers, exporters and other port users.
The commitment comes as both agencies seek to leverage technology to improve cargo clearance efficiency and support growing trade volumes through the country's premier maritime gateway.
During the meeting, Mohamed commended KPA's ongoing Smart Gates Project, describing it as a key innovation that will ease traffic congestion around the port and accelerate cargo evacuation.
The two leaders toured KPA's ongoing gate infrastructure modernization project, where they were briefed on the Smart Gates system, which will automate truck identification and verification, speed up cargo clearance processes and significantly reduce truck turnaround times.
Mohamed said KRA and KPA will continue integrating their systems and embracing technology-driven solutions to enhance cargo processing and support a more efficient logistics chain.
"We are committed to working jointly with other government agencies to streamline operational challenges through systems integration and harmonized processes in order to serve our esteemed clients better," said Mohamed.
Ruto reaffirmed KPA's commitment to working closely with KRA and other stakeholders to eliminate operational bottlenecks and strengthen the competitiveness of the Port of Mombasa.
He described the Smart Gates Project as a game changer that will improve operational efficiency, enhance cargo flow and support faster movement of cargo through the port.
"We are working together as one team to address any bottlenecks affecting port operations and make the Port of Mombasa more efficient for all our customers," said Ruto.
As part of the visit, Mohamed also toured KRA's cargo scanning facilities and the Regional Electronic Cargo Tracking System (RECTS) operations.
@KRACorporate@CG_KRA
The Port of Mombasa is accelerating infrastructure expansion programme aimed at positioning its strength as a leading maritime gateway in the region as cargo volumes continue to grow and place increasing demands on its facilities.
To underscore the importance of the ongoing investments, today the Kenya Ports Authority Board members , accompanied by senior management, inspected key Port infrastructure development projects at the port to assess progress.
Among the projects inspected was the newly installed Smart Gate System, a technology-driven solution designed to automate cargo and vehicle access through the port.
During the tour the Board members received updates on the status of the ongoing construction of Berth 19B. The project upon completion is expected to increase vessel-handling capacity, accommodate larger ships and shorten vessel waiting times, boosting the port's ability to handle rising cargo volumes.
The Board visit focused on strategic projects that are expected to transform cargo handling operations, ease traffic flow, and enhance the port's competitiveness in the increasingly competitive global shipping industry.
Additionally , the KPA leadership reaffirmed its commitment to ensuring all strategic projects deliver value, enhance service delivery and position the Port of Mombasa to meet the evolving needs of the global shipping industry.
The visit aligns with the Authority’s business objective pursuing a long-term strategy focused on modernising port infrastructure, improving operational efficiency and building a resilient logistics hub capable of supporting regional and international trade.
Kenya Ports Authority has recorded another milestone following the attainment of two new international certifications that reinforce its commitment to environmental management and workplace safety across its port facilities.
The Authority was awarded ISO 14001:2015 for Environmental Management Systems and ISO 45001:2018 for Occupational Health and Safety Management Systems.
The certifications affirm KPA's adoption of globally recognized standards aimed at promoting sustainable operations, protecting the environment and enhancing the safety and wellbeing of employees and stakeholders.
Speaking during the presentation of the certificates in Mombasa, Kenya Bureau of Standards (KEBS) Managing Director Esther Ngari said the achievement marked a significant milestone in KPA's journey towards operational excellence and sustainable growth.
Ngari noted that KPA has maintained ISO 9001 certification since 2010, demonstrating more than a decade of commitment to quality management and customer-focused service delivery.
She said the Authority has consistently embraced internationally recognized best practices to deliver efficient, timely and reliable port and logistics services.
"Today's certification to ISO 14001 and ISO 45001 therefore represents a natural progression in KPA's excellence journey," she said, adding that the Authority had evolved from focusing on quality management to embracing an integrated approach where quality, environmental stewardship and occupational health and safety are managed as strategic priorities.
She described the achievement as the hallmark of a world-class port authority and said KPA had established a benchmark for public sector excellence in Kenya and across the continent.
Ngari further noted that the Port of Mombasa serves as the gateway to East and Central Africa and that improvements in KPA's systems have a positive impact on regional trade and logistics corridors serving countries including Uganda, Rwanda, South Sudan and Burundi.
On his part, the Kenya Ports Authority Chief Executive Officer Capt. William Ruto said the certification crowns years of hardwork, resilience and adaptation at the port.
He added that the recognition reflects KPA's transformation journey over more than a decade.
Capt. Ruto thanked KEBS for supporting the process and said the Authority was deeply honoured to receive the Environmental Management System and Occupational Health and Safety Management System certifications.
Ruto lauded the introduction of ISO standards saying it had transformed how KPA works by strengthening systems and discipline, helping the port respond better to the ever dynamic operational demands.
"The reforms we are witnessing were driven by the realities KPA faced in the early 2000s, when rising cargo volumes, outdated infrastructure, manual processes and growing safety and environmental risks threatened the port's ability to evolve into a more resilient and globally competitive maritime gateway," he added.
The two leaders termed the certification as both a validation of past reforms and a platform for deeper progress for the gateway to East and Central Africa.
UPDATE : The Kenya Ports Authority (@Kenya_Ports ) has launched the Vessel Traffic Management and Information System (VTMIS) at the Port of #Mombasa, marking a significant milestone in enhancing safety, security, and efficiency of vessel navigation within Kenya's territorial waters.
The system is designed to improve vessel traffic management, strengthen oversight of port operations, including traffic control, resource management, and logistics coordination.
This project forms part of the #Kenya Ports Authority's broader modernization agenda, which aims to leverage technology to support safe, efficient, and sustainable maritime operations.
During the launch ceremony, Chief Executive Officer Capt. William K. Ruto stated that the Authority remains committed to investing in digital solutions that enhance operational efficiency and position the Port of Mombasa as a leading maritime gateway in the region.
Capt. Ruto noted that the Port of Mombasa has continued to register impressive growth in both cargo volumes and vessel traffic, necessitating modern systems to support safe and efficient navigation while maintaining high standards expected of a world-class port.
The VTMIS has been deployed across three interconnected sites: the Port Vessel Traffic Services Control Tower, Ras Serani Signal Station, and the Shimanzi Oil Terminal Radar Site, creating a single integrated operational platform that provides real-time visibility and control of vessel movements within the port and its approaches.
Additionally, the information system integrates advanced radar surveillance, automatic vessel tracking, integrated marine communications, meteorological monitoring, oil spill detection, and digital port management functions, expected to enhance situational awareness, improve decision-making, and strengthen overall marine safety and efficiency.
#Ugandapostnews
#Kenya
#EastAfrica
📷 Courtesy
The Kenya Ports Authority (KPA) has commissioned a new Vessel Traffic Management and Information System (VTMIS) at the Port of Mombasa to improve the safety, security and efficiency of vessel navigation while enhancing overall port operations.
Speaking during the launch, KPA Managing Director Capt. William Ruto said the system integrates the Port Vessel Traffic Services Control Tower, Ras Serani Signal Station and the Shimanzi Oil Terminal Radar Site into a single intelligent platform to strengthen traffic management, logistics coordination and maritime operations.
"The VTMIS will further enhance vessel traffic management and bolster overall port operations, including traffic management, resource allocation and logistics coordination," said William Ruto.
Photo: Yvonne Mutunga (Facebook)
Kenya Ports Authority (KPA) has commissioned a new Sh1 billion Vessel Traffic Management and Information System (VTMIS) to enhance operation efficiency.
#KBCniYetu ^KG
Kenya Ports Authority on Wednesday launched the Vessel Traffic Management and Information System (VTMIS) at the Port of Mombasa, marking a significant milestone in enhancing the safety, security and efficiency of vessel navigation within Kenya’s territorial waters.
The system is designed to improve vessel traffic management while strengthening oversight of port operations, including traffic control, resource management and logistics coordination. The project forms part of KPA’s broader modernization agenda aimed at leveraging technology to support safe, efficient and sustainable maritime operations.
Speaking during the launch ceremony, Chief Executive Officer Capt. William K. Ruto noted that the Authority remains committed to investing in digital solutions that enhance operational efficiency and position the Port of Mombasa as a leading maritime gateway in the region.
The VTMIS has been deployed across three interconnected sites, the Port Vessel Traffic Services Control Tower, Ras Serani Signal Station and the Shimanzi Oil Terminal Radar Site. All the facilities create a single integrated operational platform that provides real-time visibility and control of vessel movements within the port and its approaches.
In addition, the information system integrates modern advanced radar surveillance, automatic vessel tracking, integrated marine communications, meteorological monitoring, oil spill detection and digital port management functions. The features of the system are expected to enhance situational awareness, improve decision-making and strengthen overall marine safety and efficiency.
Capt. Ruto noted that the project has also included a strong human capacity development component, with some members of staff undergoing specialized training in vessel traffic services, radar operations, port management information systems, pilotage support and internationally recognized IALA certification programmes.
He reaffirmed KPA’s commitment to investing in world-class infrastructure, digital transformation and sustainable maritime operations that contribute to national development, regional integration and global competitiveness.
The operationalization of the VTMIS reinforces KPA’s ambition to embrace innovation and technology-driven solutions in delivering efficient, secure and competitive port services for Kenya and the wider East African region.
KPA shines at Nakuru Show, bagging 11 trophies for climate-smart agriculture and trade initiatives.
Wins include best stand in Blue Economy, Govt Stand, Community Projects, Environmental Standards, Trade Stand, Transport Services, International Trade, Exports, & National Cohesion.
Also placed 2nd in Youth Empowerment & Non-Agri Statutory Board, 3rd in Information Technology and Communication.
KPA is cutting port charges for exports, launching a green channel for fresh produce, and expanding cold chain infrastructure to cut post-harvest losses and boost global trade.
The authority has been at the forefront of implementing cold chain logistics initiatives to support the agriculture sector and facilitate international trade. It has introduced discounted port charges for export cargo, giving farmers and exporters a competitive edge in international markets.
A dedicated green channel now gives fresh produce exports priority access for gate entry and handling at port facilities, helping keep cargo on schedule to ensure goods reach their destination at peak quality.
KPA is also strengthening infrastructure through the addition of reefer plugin points and other modern port facilities. These initiatives are critical for reducing post-harvest losses and enhancing Kenya's position in global agricultural trade.
The Port of Mombasa has closed a successful cruise season with the arrival of the MS Viking Yidun, the ninth vessel to dock at the port. The season brought more than 6000 cruise tourists to the Kenyan coast.
Operated by Viking Ocean Cruises, the MS Viking Yidun is the first cruise liner from Asia to call at Mombasa, carrying a majority of Chinese visitors.
The ship began its voyage from the Port of Shanghai on June 4 and will visit twenty-seven ports across sixteen countries in Asia and Africa during its itinerary.
The ship arrived with 717 guests and 489 crew members, who will spend their one day stay exploring the city through organized tours, excursions, and game drives.
Kenya Ports Authority Chief Executive Officer, Captain William Ruto, welcomed the vessel at a colorful reception. He said the authority is working closely with other tourism stakeholders to support cruise tourism and strengthen Kenya's position as a top destination.
Following recent investment in a modern cruise terminal, Captain Ruto said the plan is to expand amenities at the facility to ensure guest comfort throughout their Kenyan experience.
@magicalkenya@mohammedhersi@TransportKE@SDoT_Kenya
Kenya’s transport and logistics sector has been recognized as a key driver of economic transformation, with renewed calls for stronger collaboration between government and industry players to enhance efficiency and competitiveness.
Transport PS @mohamed_daghar underscored the sector’s central role in shaping the country’s economic future, noting that the success of regional trade will depend on collaboration, innovation, and the adoption of efficient systems.
KPA CEO Captain William Ruto cited ongoing port upgrades and stakeholder feedback as key to improving turnaround times at Mombasa.
Shippers Council Chair John Msafari welcomed closer government-private sector ties, saying they ease supply chain friction.
The forum, involving multiple agencies, called for sustained coordination to streamline the shipping and logistics sector.
H.E. President @WilliamsRuto has urged global leaders and delegates to take bold steps and turn promises into tangible action as he presided over the closing ceremony of the 11th Oceans Conference.
President Ruto said countries must find bolder ways to mobilise finance, harness technology and innovation, strengthen capacity, and accelerate the implementation of shared commitments.
The ceremony marked the end of a high-level global forum where countries renewed their commitments to ocean conservation.
The summit culminated in the adoption of the Mombasa Declaration of June 2026, which recorded 300 new commitments and pledges for ocean protection initiatives.
These commitments underscore growing global momentum to safeguard marine ecosystems amid rising climate and security concerns.
Kenya emerged as a key player at the conference, making 50 commitments worth Sh1.1 billion dollars to advance the blue economy, strengthen fisheries management, and enhance marine protection.
President Ruto further highlighted several measures Kenya has taken to promote sustainable ocean governance.
He cited initiatives such as the creation of a dedicated State Department for the Blue Economy and Fisheries, the construction of the Sh2.6 billion Shimoni Fish Port by Kenya Ports Authority, and the acquisition of patrol boats to strengthen maritime security.
The conference, which began on Tuesday, brought together more than 6,000 delegates from 104 countries and institutions, giving governments, scientists, and stakeholders a platform to turn policy commitments into concrete action on ocean protection.
@MiBeMa_2022@HassanAliJoho@OurOceanOOC
As cargo flows through East Africa’s busiest maritime gateway continue to steadily rise, Kenya Ports Authority is pushing forward with a critical infrastructure projects designed to keep pace with this demand. One of these projects is Berth 19B, a major quay extension currently under construction at the Port of Mombasa.
The new berth adds 240 metres of quay length and a draft of 15 metres, built to modern specifications that allow it to handle container vessels of up to approximately 45,000 deadweight tonnage.
This capability addresses operational need of larger ships calling on Mombasa that require deeper drafts and longer berthing spaces to turn around efficiently.
Once completed, Berth 19B will deliver an additional handling capacity of 300,000 TEUs annually, translating to reduced congestion at existing berths, faster vessel turnaround times, and smoother cargo evacuation from the port.
The project’s scope includes quay wall construction, dredging to deepen the channel, container yard expansion, and supporting port infrastructure designed to integrate seamlessly with current terminal systems.
Kenya Ports Authority has framed the development as part of a broader strategic push to invest in port infrastructure ahead of demand, reinforcing the Port of Mombasa position as the region’s preferred logistics and trade hub.