KPA steps up port security as Mombasa strengthens global trade gateway

Kenya, August 15, 2026 - The Kenya Ports Authority (KPA) has stepped up implementation of the International Ship and Port Facility Security (ISPS) Code as it moves to strengthen security at the Port of Mombasa.

The authority says the measures are aimed at ensuring the safe and uninterrupted movement of international maritime trade through Kenya’s main port.

More than 40 KPA security officers recently received certificates after completing security awareness training at the Port of Mombasa.

The training included practical security drills designed to test the officers’ preparedness, strengthen their operational knowledge and improve their ability to identify and respond to security gaps.

KPA Manager of Security Services Tony Kibwana said compliance with the ISPS Code was critical to protecting port operations and ensuring security personnel were prepared to deal with emerging threats.

“Security is not separate from port operations. It is one of the conditions that makes those operations possible. Our continued compliance with the ISPS Code demonstrates our commitment to maintaining a secure environment for ships, cargo, employees and other port users,” Mr Kibwana said.

He said regular training, exercises and assessments were essential in ensuring that security procedures could be effectively applied during actual operations.

The practical drills also provided an opportunity for officers to test their response capabilities and identify areas requiring further improvement.

The ISPS Code came into force in 2004 under the International Convention for the Safety of Life at Sea (SOLAS), establishing a common international framework for identifying security threats, assessing vulnerabilities and preventing security incidents involving ships and port facilities.

The mandatory code requires port facilities to maintain appropriate security measures, procedures and trained personnel capable of responding to identified risks.

For the Port of Mombasa, which serves Kenya and several countries in the region, KPA said compliance with the code goes beyond meeting regulatory requirements.

A secure port is critical to maintaining the confidence of shipping lines, cargo owners and trading partners while ensuring the resilience of the wider maritime supply chain.

KPA said it would continue investing in security awareness, personnel training and preparedness across its facilities as it seeks to maintain Mombasa as a safe and reliable gateway for regional and international trade.