Kenya: South Korea has reaffirmed its commitment to support the ambitious port modernisation programme of the Kenya Ports Authority (KPA). It reinforced bilateral cooperation in transfer, infrastructural development and capacity building as the Authority accelerates its digital transformation agenda.
The commitment was made on Tuesday, July 28, 2026 during a courtesy visit by the Republic of Korea’s Ambassador to Kenya – Kang Hyung-Shik to the KPA Chief Executive Officer (CEO) – Captain William Ruto. The meeting further focused on strengthening maritime cooperation between Kenya and South Korea while exploring new opportunities to enhance the efficiency, innovation and trade through the Port of Mombasa.
During the meeting, Ambassador Kang highlighted the longstanding diplomatic and economic ties between the two nations. He noted that the partnership has continued to create valuable opportunities for collaboration in infrastructure development, technological innovation and knowledge exchange.
Kang further reaffirmed South Korea’s readiness to support KPA by sharing advanced port technologies, digital solutions and global best practices in maritime operations. According to the ambassador such cooperation will play a vital role in improving port efficiency and supporting the broader economic growth objectives in Kenya.
Capt. William Ruto welcomed the continued partnership and described South Korea as a strategic partner in KPA’s modernisation journey. He mentioned that the Authority has benefitted significantly from its longstanding relationships with Korean shipping lines, logistics companies and maritime stakeholders, which have contributed to increased international trade through the Port of Mombasa.
CEO of KPA also emphasised its commitment to strengthen collaboration with leading Korean ports as part of ongoing efforts to accelerate digitalisation, improve service delivery and enhance operational efficiency. Capt. Ruto said that this partnership will also help in positioning the Port of Mombasa as the preferred maritime gateway for East and Central Africa by adopting innovative technologies along with international best practices that improve competitiveness within the global shipping industry.
The discussions also reflected the growing economic partnership between Kenya and South Korea considering the state visit of President Willian Samoei Ruto to Seoul in 2024. That visit placed strong emphasis on expanding bilateral trade, by attracting investment and deepening cooperation in technology and infrastructure development.
Receiving the renewed support from South Korea, KPA will continue to implement its long-term modernisation strategy and is expected to strengthen the digital transformation efforts of the Authority by improving port operations and further enhancing Kenya’s position as a leading regional maritime and logistics hub.