The Kenya Ports Authority (KPA) has acquired three state-of-the-art Super Post Panamax Ship-to-Shore (STS) gantry cranes. These cutting-edge cranes, equipped with advanced technology and capabilities, will revolutionize Lamu port operations and position the Port as a global maritime hub.
“The procurement of these cranes, at a total cost of USD 31,493,808 (including CIF), underscores our commitment to managing our premier ports, including the Port of Mombasa and Port of Lamu. These ports serve as vital gateways for regional and international trade, connecting our nation to the global economy,” KPA managing director Captain Ruto said.
What sets these cranes apart is their advanced technology and capabilities. With a reach of 24 containers across and the ability to handle modern vessels of over 18,000 TEUs, these cranes are equipped to compete with the best ports in the world and attract Super Post Panamax vessels, according to Captain Ruto
The cranes have been specifically designed to address the unique challenges posed by Lamu’s windy conditions, with twin-box booms ensuring stability and operational reliability. The Lamu Port South Sudan Ethiopia Transport (LAPSSET) corridor has entered a new phase of development.
As one of the 11 Presidential Infrastructure Champion Initiative projects, the LAPSSET Corridor Program was admitted at the AU Summit in Johannesburg, South Africa, in June 2015. This visionary initiative aims to connect the East Coast of Africa to the West Coast through the proposed East-West Trans-African Corridor.
The LAPSSET Corridor Program encompasses a vast network of infrastructure projects, including highways, railways, and international airports. These projects not only enhance connectivity but also promote regional stability and prosperity. The ensuing commissioning of infrastructures such as Isiolo Airport and the Moyale One Stop Border Post (OSBP) further demonstrates Kenya’s dedication to advancing the LAPSSET agenda, Captain Ruto added.
In addition to its role in facilitating trade, the Port of Lamu hosts and catalyzes broader development initiatives, including the Lamu Special Economic Zone (SEZ). With objectives ranging from expanding production to promoting local entrepreneurship, the SEZ holds the promise of unlocking Lamu’s full economic potential.
“As we celebrate this milestone achievement, let us reaffirm our commitment to realizing the full potential of Lamu Port and the LAPSSET Corridor Program. Together, we can build a future of prosperity and opportunity for all Kenyans,” Captain Ruto said.
Recently, Kenya and Ethiopia agreed to fight insecurity, review tariffs, and fast-track the completion of infrastructure projects to facilitate the seamless flow of cargo from Lamu to Ethiopia.
The two governments held a meeting in Nairobi where Kenya assured Addis Ababa of a functional Port of Lamu, with a superstructure, cargo yard, operational equipment, port workshop, warehouses, office space, and accommodation facilities. KPA has also promised to review port tariffs as Ethiopia puts in place plans to start using the port.
The tariffs are one of the conditions Addis asked to be considered after Kenya assured them of security on the LAPSSET corridor.
On the sidelines of the meeting with the Ethiopian delegation and Kenya, the two countries agreed to work on diplomatic and other approaches aimed at facilitating the use of the port of Lamu by Ethiopia for the importation of fertilizer to position the corridor as a strategic trade hub for the region.
The article was published by the editorial team at the FEAFFA Secretariat. For any enquiries, contact us via Email: editorial@feaffa.com/ freightlogistics@feaffa.com / onionga@feaffa.com Tel: +254733780240
