Kenya Ports Authority Readies for Increased Cargo Volume with New Shipping Lines

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Mombasa, Kenya – The Kenya Ports Authority (KPA) is gearing up for a surge in cargo volumes following the expansion of its container terminal. This development comes after the first full container vessel of Ignazio Messina Line, MV Jolly Argento, made its maiden voyage to the port.

According to Kenya News Agency, Captain Abdulaziz Mzee, representing the authority, stated that the arrival of the MV Jolly Argento marks a significant opportunity for KPA. Messina Line, historically known for bringing Ro-Ro vessels to Mombasa, has now invested in full container vessels. Captain Mzee highlighted that this is the first container carrier to berth at the container terminal, ranging from berth number 16 to 22. He emphasized that the vessel has enabled KPA to handle more cargo due to the terminal’s draft capacity of 12.5 to 14 meters.

The port captain encouraged other shipping lines to follow Messina’s lead and bring more cargo to the port of Mombasa and the new Port of Lamu. He mentioned that KPA has expanded its container terminal to include berth numbers 21 and 22 and plans to continue with berth number 23. This expansion has significantly increased the port’s capacity for storing and handling containers.

Messina Line Regional Managing Director, Captain Giuseppe Fedele, noted that their vessel is the only shipping line directly connecting the North-west continent and the Mediterranean Sea to Mombasa. He revealed that a sister vessel, Jolly Yoro, is scheduled to dock in Mombasa in early December. Fedele expressed intentions to expand services and potentially make Mombasa a hub for Messina Line operations, including the introduction of new Ro-Ro vessels operating between Mombasa and Dar es Salaam.