By Benadeta Mwaura - Reporter
Kenya, August 7, 2026 - The Kenya Ports Authority (KPA) and the Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) have intensified efforts to improve efficiency at the Port of Mombasa following a high-level meeting bringing together key stakeholders in the shipping, logistics and transport sectors.
The meeting, held in Mombasa, focused on accelerating cargo clearance procedures, strengthening collaboration among institutions and identifying practical solutions to persistent bottlenecks affecting trade at Kenya's busiest seaport.
The engagement forms part of the ongoing bi-monthly Port Community Meetings, which provide a platform for government agencies, shipping lines, clearing agents, transporters and other industry players to discuss challenges affecting port operations.
Leading the discussions were KRA Commissioner-General Adan Mohamed, Kenya Ports Authority Managing Director Captain William Ruto and Commissioner for Customs and Border Control Dr Lilian Nyawanda.
The three officials emphasised the importance of closer cooperation among stakeholders in reducing delays, lowering business costs and strengthening Kenya's position as a regional trade hub.
Despite significant investments in infrastructure, technology and operational reforms, importers and exporters have continued to raise concerns over delays in cargo clearance, high logistics costs and lengthy administrative procedures.
The latest discussions focused on identifying emerging challenges and implementing solutions capable of accelerating the movement of goods through the port.
Officials indicated that digital transformation remains one of the most effective ways of improving efficiency, particularly as the volume of cargo handled at the facility continues to increase.
The authorities also reiterated their commitment to improving information sharing among stakeholders while reducing duplication of processes.
The Port of Mombasa remains one of the most strategically important transport hubs in East and Central Africa, serving not only Kenya but also neighbouring countries, including Uganda, Rwanda, South Sudan, Burundi and the Democratic Republic of Congo.
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Over the years, the government has invested billions of shillings in modernising the facility through the expansion of container terminals, the construction of new berths and the introduction of digital systems aimed at simplifying operations.
Recent efforts by both KPA and KRA have also focused on reducing the amount of time cargo spends at the port, commonly referred to as dwell time, which directly affects the cost of doing business.
The latest engagement comes only days after KRA announced plans to expand the use of digital technologies, including blockchain systems, to improve transparency and minimise delays in cargo processing.
Authorities believe that greater automation will help improve efficiency while strengthening Kenya's competitiveness as regional economies increasingly compete for international trade opportunities.
The reforms are also expected to support the government's broader strategy of positioning Mombasa as one of Africa's leading maritime and logistics centres.
Officials said regular consultations with industry players would continue to ensure that challenges are identified and resolved promptly.
As cargo volumes continue to grow, authorities say collaboration between public institutions and private-sector players will remain essential to maintaining the port's role as the region's principal gateway for international trade.