Construction for the new Lamu Port Southern Sudan-Ethiopia Transport corridor is expected to drive significant opportunities for the breakbulk sector, according to predictions from research consultancy Africa House.
In a recent research note the firm states that nine development zones or “growth areas” have been identified including a dedicated bulk cargo center at Lamu which will help the port, as well as Isiolo area in the western interior, become major transport hubs.
“It is estimated that Mombasa Port will have outstripped its capacity by 2025,” a spokesperson for Africa house said, adding that “a contract for the first three of planned 32 berths [at Manda Bay in Lamu] has already been awarded to a consortium of companies led by China Communications Construction Co. with the value of contract at 42 billion Kenya shillings.”
Despite the overall positive expectations for growth in project cargo demand in the region the firm cautions that some factors still threaten downside risk.
“Recent developments may, however, reduce the impetus for the LAPSSET Corridor. Uganda and Tanzania have announced the routing of the oil pipeline from Lake Albert to Tanga Port in Tanzania rather than Lamu. Ethiopia is strengthening its trade corridor to Djibouti Port,” a spokesperson added.
Headquartered in Johannesburg, Africa House was formed following the merger of Whitehouse & Associates and Africa Project Access. The firm provides trade and project environment analysis alongside bespoke research on projects and opportunities in African transport and breakbulk markets.
Source: Break Bulk

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