POSITIONING THE PORT OF MOMBASA AS A GATEWAY TO KENYA’S VIBRANT TOURISM INDUSTRY
BY WILLIAM RUTO
As the largest and busiest seaport in East Africa, the Port of Mombasa is more than just a hub for trade and logistics; it is poised to become a cornerstone of Kenya’s vibrant tourism industry. With a strategic location, modern infrastructure, and a skilled workforce, Mombasa’s port is set to redefine its role, connecting not just goods but also people to the breathtaking experiences Kenya has to offer.
In the past year, the port has demonstrated remarkable resilience, with cargo throughput increasing by 6.2 percent, reaching nearly 36 million metric tons. This growth, propelled by a 14.8 percent rise in containerized cargo, underscores our commitment to efficient operations and modernization. Looking ahead, we anticipate another record year in 2024, with an expected increase of over 200,000 TEUs in container handling. This is evident in the port’s performance between January to October 2024 in comparison to the corresponding period in 2023, having recorded a positive performance in Cargo throughput, Container, Transit and Transhipment traffic exceeding the corresponding period by 13.9%, 24.2%, 20.2%, and 171.9% respectively.
In line with the current 10-month performance, by the end of 2024, projection shows that the Port of Mombasa is likely to handle 40.535 million tons in cargo throughput, 1.972 million TEUs in Container traffic, 480,241 TEUs Transhipment traffic and 13.416 million tons in transit traffic.
We are thrilled by the record performance. However, our vision extends beyond cargo. The Port of Mombasa is strategically positioned to become a key entry point for international tourists, enhancing Kenya’s global competitiveness as a premier tourist destination. The recently constructed ultra-modern Cruise Terminal signifies a new era for Mombasa, not only bolstering our cargo operations but also attracting cruise tourism.
Tourism is a critical driver of our economy, and by positioning Mombasa as a gateway to Kenya’s diverse attractions, we can significantly boost regional tourism. Our aim is to create a seamless experience for international visitors, allowing them to explore our pristine beaches, iconic wildlife, and rich cultural heritage right from the moment they step off the ship.
Under my leadership, the Kenya Ports Authority is committed to transforming the Port of Mombasa into a world-class maritime gateway. We are investing in strategic partnerships and continuous innovation to ensure that the port thrives. This vision includes welcoming more cruise vessels, enhancing visitor experiences, and showcasing the warmth and hospitality of our coastal city.
In the first quarter of this year, the Port welcomed cruise vessels MV Norwegian Dawn, MSC Poesia, and World Odyssey, carrying 2,300, 2,500, and 585 tourists, respectively.
With Mombasa being the only Safari Port along the Indian Ocean, offering strong transportation links to the city and Moi International Airport, visitors can enjoy the warmth of our communities. From the moment they arrive, tourists can engage themselves in the local culture and indulge in the beauty of our beaches. Whether it’s a leisurely stroll along the shoreline or an adventure in our national parks, Mombasa offers something unique for every traveler.
As we look to the future, I am confident that the Port of Mombasa will not only continue to be a hub for trade but will also emerge as a vital player in Kenya’s tourism landscape. Together, we can position our nation as a leading destination in Africa, showcasing our natural beauty, cultural richness, and the unparalleled experiences that await every visitor. The journey has just begun, and the potential is limitless.
Captain William K. Ruto is the Managing Director of Kenya Ports Authority
