Kenya Ports Authority (KPA) has launched a Joint Operations Centre (JOC) at the Port of Lamu, with an aim to streamline and tighten border management and maritime security operations at the second commercial seaport of Kenya.
Officials said that the centre has brought together multiple agencies working within the port ecosystem under a single coordination Framework. It signifies a progressive shift towards more integrated and intelligence-led operations.
The agencies include the Port officials, customs, immigration, security enforcement and other regulatory teams that will operate in close coordination, by sharing information and responding collectively to incidents within the port ecosystem.
Chief executive Officer (CEO) of KPA – Capt. William Ruto gave speech at the launch event. On behalf of the General Manager of Port of Lamu – Capt. Abdulaziz Mzee, Ruto made a statement and said that the facility would significantly enhance real-time communication and situational awareness among agencies.
The CEO added that the centre would strengthen risk management systems, by improving detection of illicit activities and supporting more targeted enforcement operations. Capt. Ruto underscored that at its core, the initiative reflects a balancing act between security and facilitation of trade, which is key to Kenya’s maritime strategy.
Ruto also stated that a secure port is an efficient port, and an efficient port drives trade, investment and economic growth. He noted that this is the balance they must continue to uphold as they are developing Kenya’s maritime infrastructure.
The CEO also appreciated the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) for their continued support to Kenya’s border management modernisation agenda. Capt. Ruto added that the partnership with UNODC has been instrumental in strengthening institutional capacity, enhancing inter-agency cooperation, and supporting practical solutions that improve both security and trade facilitation outcomes.
The Lamu JOC is part of a wider network of similar facilities across Kenya’s entry and exit points. It includes Jomo Kenyatta International Airport, Lunga Lunga, Malindi Airport, the Port of Mombasa at Kilindini, Moi International Airport, Namanga and Kisumu Port.
Notably, rollout of these centres reflects a national goal that aims at building a unified, technology-enabled border management systems that supports national development and regional integration.