The Port of Mombasa has recorded a 12.1 percent increase in cargo throughput in the first nine months of 2024. The Kenya Ports Authority (KPA) reported that the port handled a total of 29.92 million tonnes of cargo, up from 26.68 million tonnes during the same period in 2023, resulting in a growth of 3.23 million tonnes.
“In terms of container traffic, the port processed 1,461,736 Twenty-foot Equivalent Units (TEUs) during the period under review, a substantial increase from the 1,191,282 TEUs handled in 2023, reflecting a growth of 270,454 TEUs or 22.7 percent,” KPA stated. Additionally, transshipment traffic showed remarkable growth, registering an increase of 216,339 TEUs or 162.8 percent.
“Both imports and exports also demonstrated moderate growth, with imports rising by 27,656 TEUs (5.2 percent) and exports increasing by 22,273 TEUs (4.3 percent),” KPA noted. The state corporation highlighted significant improvement in transit cargo as well, with total transit volumes reaching 9.83 million tonnes compared to 8.36 million tonnes in 2023, a difference of 1,469,540 tonnes or 17.6 percent.
Uganda was credited with playing a crucial role in this positive performance, contributing an increase of 1,132,326 tonnes or 21.9 percent. KPA Managing Director William Ruto attributed the growth to the hard work and dedication of the workforce, along with the support from partners and stakeholders.
He pointed out that in September 2024 alone, the Port handled a total of 3,415,174 tonnes of cargo, compared to 2,763,987 tonnes in the same month in 2023, representing an increase of 651,187 tonnes or 23.6 percent. “We are committed to enhancing our services and facilities to accommodate the growing demand and continue to support the region’s economic development,” Ruto added.
The Port of Mombasa continues to be a vital hub for trade in East Africa, and these results underscore its strategic importance in facilitating trade and connectivity across the region.
