MOMBASA (Kenya), Oct 16 (NNN-KBC) — The Port of Mombasa has recorded an increase in cargo throughput for the period January to September 2024, handling a total of 29.92 million tons compared to 26.68 million tons registered during the same period in 2023.
Container traffic also saw remarkable growth, with 1,461,736 Twenty-foot Equivalent Units (TEUs) handled over the period, reflecting a 22.7 percent increase from 2023.
Transshipment traffic emerged as the biggest winner, posting a staggering 162.8 percent growth to reach 216,339 TEUs, driven by ship diversions from congested regional ports such as Dar es Salaam and Durban.
Kenya Ports Authority (KPA) Managing Director Capt. William Ruto attributed the performance to operational efficiencies, collaboration with partners, and the dedication of the port’s workforce.
“We are committed to enhancing our services and facilities to accommodate the growing demand and continue to support the region’s economic development,” Capt. Ruto added.
Additionally, transit cargo volumes rose to 9.83 million tons a 17.6 percent increase from last year, cementing the port’s role as a critical gateway for regional trade.
Uganda led the charge, contributing an additional 1.13 million tons, marking a 21.9 percent increase in its cargo share through Mombasa.
The trend was further reflected in September 2024’s record-breaking performance, where 3.42 million tons of cargo passed through the port, a 23.6 percent rise compared to 2.76 million tons in September 2023.
The month also witnessed increased containerized cargo volumes and a 54.7 percent surge in liquid bulk handling.
This even as industry players remain optimistic that the port’s growth on the existing upward trajectory of cargo volumes and ongoing investments in infrastructural support will see the Port meet its annual target for the year 2024. — NNN-KBC