Kenya Ports Authority has acquired 10 new Rubber-Tyred Gantry cranes as part of comprehensive equipment modernization efforts aimed at enhancing operational efficiency and strengthening the Port of Mombasa’s regional competitiveness.
The advanced machinery, capable of lifting up to 45 tonnes, represents KPA’s commitment to sustainable and environmentally friendly port operations while reducing cargo dwell times and improving vessel turnaround efficiency. The RTG cranes complement existing fleet capacity and are expected to significantly boost productivity across port berths.
“The new equipment acquisition positions the Port of Mombasa as a leading regional trade hub,” KPA stated, highlighting continued performance improvements following record cargo handling achievements in 2024.
Last year marked historic milestones for Mombasa port operations, with total cargo throughput reaching 40.99 million metric tonnes. Container traffic exceeded 2 million twenty-foot equivalent units for the first time, demonstrating sustained growth in regional trade volumes and operational capacity.
Rwanda has announced plans to increase cargo movement through Mombasa, citing improved efficiency, reliability, and regional connectivity advantages. Currently, over 70 percent of Rwanda’s imports are processed through Tanzania’s Dar es Salaam Port, presenting significant opportunity for Mombasa to capture additional transit business.
“Mombasa’s efficiency, developed road and rail networks, and commitment to regional trade make it critical for Rwanda’s import and export requirements,” stated Rwanda’s High Commissioner to Kenya, Ernest Rwanucyo. “We encourage our business community to increase port utilization for route diversification and congestion reduction.”
KPA General Manager for Cargo Operations Sudi Mwasinago welcomed Rwanda’s renewed interest, acknowledging the East African country as a key transit client. “Rwanda remains a significant transit market, and we’re committed to providing world-class service for growing trade needs,” he affirmed.
The initiative aligns with Rwanda’s broader strategy to diversify regional logistics and reduce dependence on single transit routes. The multi-corridor approach aims to improve cargo turnaround times, enhance competitiveness for importers and exporters, and strengthen regional economic integration under East African Community frameworks.
Investment in port automation and Standard Gauge Railway connectivity linking Mombasa to Nairobi has supported increased Rwandan imports, particularly in fast-moving consumer goods, industrial equipment, and pharmaceutical supplies.
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