Kenya: The Salaries and Remuneration Commission (SRC) hailed the Kenya Ports Authority for playing its central role in facilitating both domestic and regional trade as well as sustaining transport connections that support East Africa’s economy.
During a meeting with KPA leadership, SRC Chairman – Sammy Chepkwony said that the commission was impressed by the strong performance and continuous operational improvements at the Port of Mombasa. It noted that the facility remains critical to the gateway for regional commerce.
Chepkwony said that the engagement forms part of the commission’s ongoing effort to gather first-hand insights on port operations and management. He stated that, “This information is important for informed planning and decision-making to guide the commission in carrying out its mandate and making informed decisions affecting sector stakeholders.”
Managing Director of Kenya Ports Authority – Capt. William Ruto welcomed the commission tour and said that such interactive moments provide an opportunity to strengthen the transparency and intensify the understanding of the Authority’s structure, role, and contribution to the national economy.
Capt. Ruto added that the Authority remains committed to supporting efficient trade flows and strengthening its status as the region’s preferred maritime hub
Along with this, Kenya Ports Authority management has been praised by the Kenya International Freight and Warehousing Association following improved performance at the Port of Lamu, where cargo through-put, driven largely by trans-shipment, continues to register steady growth.
The port handled 799,161 metric tonnes of cargo and 55,687 TEUs. Considering this performance, KPA officials said that it reflects gains in operational efficiency and rising confidence among shipping lines by exploring new regional routes.
Speaking during a courtesy call by a high-level KIFWA delegation, Lamu Port General Manager – Capt. Abdulaziz Mzee said that the improved figures point to a port gradually securing its place within regional and international trade networks.
He said that Mediterranean Shipping Company has become the latest major shipping line to commence operations at Lamu and joined CMA CGM. Capt. Mzee said, “We continue to attract shipping lines and logistics investors who are showing interest in the Port of Lamu.” He called on KIFWA members to act as ambassadors for the port by actively marketing its capabilities to the wider logistics and maritime community.
KIFWA team is led by branch Chairman – Rajab Hamis who said that the association would sustain close collaboration with the Authority in promoting trade and logistics growth linked to Lamu and the Northern Corridor transport network. He said that the port’s recent performance was encouraging for freight forwarders seeking alternative gateways.
The delegation included board members and officials at both national and branch levels. He said that the visit reflected growing engagement between the Authority and private sector stakeholders as Lamu transitions from a new facility into an operational port with increasing commercial activity.