In the face of challenging global economic conditions and adverse weather, the Port of Mombasa has emerged as a beacon of operational efficiency, showcasing marked improvements across various key performance indicators.
Between January and October 2023, the port experienced a commendable increase in cargo throughput, handling 29.66 million tonnes compared to the 28.69 million tonnes in the same period in 2022, signifying a notable 3.4% growth. This positive trajectory extends to the transit market segment, with a 7.3% rise from 8.67 million tonnes in 2022 to 9.30 million tonnes this year.
One of the pivotal indicators of the port’s competitiveness, the container vessel turnaround time, demonstrated significant progress, decreasing from an average of three days in 2022 to an impressive two days in 2023. This enhancement extends to the average container dwell time, which saw a 10% improvement, reducing to 3.5 days from 3.9 days in 2022.
Noteworthy is the efficiency in managing container waiting times, with current ship waiting time for containerized vessels at a mere 0.2 days. The gross vessel turnaround time has seen a remarkable reduction from 90.5 hours in 2022 to 64.1 hours in the corresponding period this year, indicating a substantial advancement in ship port time.
The efficiency extends across various vessel types, with Bulk Cargo vessel turnaround time at 3.6 days, car carrier vessel turnaround time at 0.9 days, and general cargo and tanker vessels’ turnaround time at 7.2 days and 4.3 days, respectively.
What sets the Port of Mombasa apart is not only its impressive performance but the strategic initiatives undertaken by the Kenya Ports Authority (KPA) under the leadership of Managing Director Captain William Ruto. Ruto attributes the success to developments and efficiency initiatives, including the expansion of container handling berths, increased automation of services, acquisition of modern ship and cargo handling equipment, and strengthened partnerships with key government agencies and stakeholders.
The port currently boasts a formidable fleet of equipment, including 16 ship-to-shore gantries (STSs), 25 reach stackers, 27 empty container handlers, 58 rubber-tired, and eight rail-mounted gantries.
In comparison to regional ports, the Port of Mombasa’s performance stands out as exemplary, setting a standard for operational excellence. The resilience and commitment to implementing forward-looking initiatives ensure that the port remains a vital hub for trade and a key player in the global supply chain.
As the world grapples with economic uncertainties, the Port of Mombasa stands tall, not only weathering the storm but thriving against the odds, showcasing the power of strategic planning, innovation, and effective leadership in the maritime industry.
e.news 
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