Kenya Ports Authority’s (KPA) equipment acquisition efforts for the Port of Mombasa got a major boost on Tuesday following the arrival of two ultra-modern diesel electric cranes. The cranes funded by Trade Mark East Africa (TMA) through the UK government’s International Climate Fund (ICF) facility were procured at a total cost of Kshs 868.27 million (USD 8.7 million).

The two portal harbor cranes are part of a comprehensive programme in supporting the Port of Mombasa’s resilient port infrastructure initiatives.

These cranes are aimed at mitigating the negative effects on the environment.

The Government of Kenya has made it a priority to continually invest in infrastructural develop-ment of the Port of Mombasa and made progress in the moderni-sation of the Port.

Some of the key projects include the construction of the phase 1 of the Second Container Terminal which increased the port’s annual capacity by 550,000 TEUs, the construction of Berth No. 19, and the dredging of the entrance channel which has enabled the Port to handle larger vessels.

TMA has been working closely with KPA to implement short-term and high impact projects including the improve-ment of Gate 18/20 which enhanced Port access as well as the upgrading of Yard 5 which increased capacity at the Port.

KPA through support from TMA has developed a green port policy which seeks to position the Port of Mombasa as a leading world port providing sound stewardship and manage-ment of the environment affected by port operations.

The strategy highlights the need to place people first, while addressing the negative impacts occasioned by port operations as well placing a premium on technology-rich and sustainable port operations.

Source: Coast Week

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