The port of Mombasa is finally improving in trade volumes after government intervention to reform its running, President William Ruto has said.
He noted that the Port of Mombasa, a critical gateway for trade and has seen cargo throughput rise from 33.8 million metric tonnes in 2022 to 35.9 million metric tonnes in 2023, with container traffic increasing by 11.9% to 1.62 million units.
Similarly, Lamu Port, now fully operational, handled 37,576 metric tonnes of cargo from 36 vessels in 2023, and recent upgrades, including the installation of modern gantry cranes, have enabled it to handle three ships simultaneously.
Reduced tariffs and extended free storage periods have further enhanced its appeal, driving growth and opening new trade corridors.
Speaking at Vipingo Ridge as he launch of the Kilifi International and Investment Conference, the Prseidnt told how For Kilifi’s farmers and fisherfolk, these advancements translate into higher incomes, better job security, and increased participation in global trade.
“Through our collective efforts, these infrastructure achievements are being transformed into opportunities that uplift communities and sustain livelihoods,” he noted.
Kilifi County has steadily evolved into a hub for thriving Export Processing Zone (EPZ) enterprises.
Notable firms include Nuts and More Processing (EA) Ltd, which employs 405 workers to process cashew nuts for export; Kenya Tropical Sea Life EPZ Ltd, employing 31 Kenyans to export exotic and ornamental marine fish; Fuhua Kenya EPZ Ltd, producing knitted fabrics and undergarments with 747 employees; and Mega Apparel Industries Kenya Ltd, manufacturing woven clothing and providing jobs for 3,309 people.
The President narrate how to enhance local participation and increase the value of exported products, the government has initiated flagship EPZ projects; Busia, Eldoret, Murang’a and Kirinyaga are now all above 50 per cent construction stage.
Additionally, through the promotion of Special Economic Zones (SEZs), Kenya has licensed 39 SEZs, with ten located within the coastal economic bloc. These initiatives are driving economic growth, creating jobs, and strengthening Kenya’s export capacity.
“I commend the County Government of Kilifi, under the leadership of Governor Gideon Mung’aro, for the excellent work being done here and for hosting this conference. I also extend my best wishes for a productive conference and look forward towitnessing its impact in driving investment momentum in Kilifi,” said the President.
