The Port of Mombasa tightened its grip as East Africa's logistics powerhouse in 2025, posting a strong surge in throughput that underscored its growing strategic importance to regional trade.

Volumes handled at the port climbed by 10.9 percent to a record 45.45 million metric tonnes, reflecting rising demand across the hinterland and reaffirming Mombasa's position as a gateway linking global markets to East and Central Africa.

In an update on Thursday, Kenya Ports Authority (KPA) said inbound cargo equally increased during the year under review to 55.4 percent from 53.1 percent of total cargo haul handled. 

“This indicates sustained economic activity and a renewed trade demand ecosystem supported by improved logistics and streamlined cargo clearance processes,” said KPA Managing Director Captain William Ruto.

According to KPA disclosures, cargo destined to neihgbouring countries increased to 15.88 million metric tonnes in 2025 from 13.29 million metric tonnes recorded in 2024, reflecting a growth of 2.59 million metric tonnes or 19.5 percent.

Capt. Ruto noted that all ports in the country reported growth with the Port of Lamu experiencing the biggest rise, handling a total of 55,687 TEUs.

“The facility handled an impressive 799,161 metric tonnes compared to 74,380 metric tonnes recorded the previous year, mainly driven by containerised cargo,” said Capt. Ruto.

“With more shipping lines introducing regular services at Lamu, this is a promise for increased cargo volumes through the port in the coming years,” explained Capt. Ruto.

At the same time, the Port of Kisumu handled 496,516 metric tonnes of cargo during the year under focus, reflecting a 55 percent improvement from the 295,516 metric tonnes handled in 2024.

Earlier this month, KPA announced it is working with cargo trade stakeholders, including the Kenya Revenue Authority to ease congestion with all long-stay consignments earmarked for auction or destruction being transferred to designated container freight stations.

The stakeholders agreed to start the evacuation exercise at the G-section of the port with a view to rapidly free up critical yard space, easing congestion and improving operational flow. 

To speed up cargo clearance, KRA said it will expand the pre-arrival processing framework, with priority given to bulk cargo, low-risk shipments, and Authorized Economic Operator consignments. 

The enhanced system will allow cargo to be processed before arrival, significantly reducing clearance times, improving predictability, and minimising delays. 

[email protected]