Kenya Ports Authority (KPA) officials met with EU naval officers from Operation ATLANTA on Monday, Nov 17, 2025 as security gains in the Indian Ocean continue to draw more vessels and containers to the region.
During the courtesy call at the Port of Mombasa, Managing Director of the Kenya Ports Authority – Capt. William Ruto praised Operation ATLANTA for strengthening security along the Indian Ocean corridor, he acknowledged that these improvements have boosted confidence among shipping lines.
Capt. Ruto said that secured waters are essential for economic growth and for reinforcing East Africa’s role in international trade. He added that cooperation with national authorities and specialised units across the Horn of Africa has been key aspect in deterring threats.
“The Indian Ocean is becoming safer, and this is encouraging more vessels to pass through,” said William Ruto.
Considering this, Portuguese Navy Force Commander – Joao Pedro Da Silva Commodore reaffirmed the commitment of the mission and said that this ‘Operation ATLANTA’ will continue supporting regional maritime security under its expanded mandate.
Commander Pedro Da Silva further stated that the rise in maritime traffic and safer trade routes is the result of cooperation and trust among international security agencies and regional governments.
According to Da Silva, the mission will remain vigilant in protecting shipping lanes, with its renewed mandate stretching from Somalia’s coastline through the Gulf of Aden, across the wider Indian Ocean and into parts of the Red Sea.
He added to his statement that while piracy remains a priority, Operation ATALANTA is also responding to emerging maritime threats that undermine global commerce.
Launched in year 2008, Operation ATLANTA is the counter-piracy mission of the European Union (EU) in the Western Indian Ocean and the Red Sea. It has some major expanded tasks that include protecting World Food Programme vessels and monitoring the arms which embargo on Somalia, in East Africa.