The Port of Mombasa in Kenya has experienced a remarkable surge in container traffic, showcasing significant growth and surpassing previous records. Recent investments in infrastructure and operational improvements have contributed to the port’s success, despite heightened competition from regional counterparts. With an impressive performance in May 2023 and a positive trend over the past three months, the port is poised to achieve even greater heights by the end of the year.
In May 2023, the Port of Mombasa registered an unprecedented container traffic performance, handling 150,639 Twenty-Foot Equivalent Units (TEUs), marking the highest recorded figure for a single month. This represents a substantial growth of 26.84% compared to May 2022. Moreover, the port exceeded its target of 620,719 TEUs by 31,873 TEUs, indicating a potential annual container traffic of 1.48 million TEUs by the close of the year.
The upward trend in container traffic has been evident since March, with both April and May delivering impressive results of 132,119 TEUs and 138,373 TEUs, respectively. These figures are notably higher than the corresponding period in 2022, which saw 112,245 TEUs and 121,249 TEUs handled.
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To remain competitive against regional counterparts and enhance operational efficiency, the Kenya Ports Authority (KPA) injected Sh3.7 billion shillings to acquire five new Harbour Mobile Cranes for the Lamu and Mombasa ports. Additionally, four Ship to Shore Gantry cranes are set to replace older models in July, enhancing the port’s efficiency.
These investments have contributed to improved operational metrics, with average container dwell time reducing to 3.5 days from 4.0 days, berth working time decreasing to 1.7 days from 2.6 days, and average gross moves per ship per hour increasing to 36 from 34.
The Port of Mombasa’s remarkable performance in the first five months of 2023, with a total container traffic of 652,592 TEUs, reflects a 9.62% increase compared to the same period in 2022. This growth outpaces previous years and positions the port for continued success. Moreover, the completion of the second phase of the Second Container Terminal has expanded the port’s capacity by an additional 450,000 TEUs, allowing for better ship and yard planning.
The record-breaking performance in May 2023 and consistent growth over the past three months highlight the port’s competitiveness in the region. With continued efforts to enhance infrastructure and provide efficient services, the Port of Mombasa is poised to maintain its upward trajectory and become a key driver of economic growth in Kenya.
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