Lamu Port Tipped as East Africa's Next Maritime Hub

Kenya, July 15 2026 - A delegation from China's Nanjing Port has expressed confidence that the Port of Lamu is well positioned to become one of East Africa's leading maritime hubs, citing its deep-water berths, strategic location and rising cargo volumes as key strengths.

The delegation, led by Nanjing Port General Manager Zhang Chuanping, toured Kenya's second commercial seaport as part of a fact-finding mission aimed at identifying opportunities for cooperation in port development, automation and digital transformation.

The visit came a day after the Chinese delegation held talks with Kenya Ports Authority (KPA) Managing Director Capt. William Ruto at the Port of Mombasa on strengthening collaboration between the two ports.

Speaking after the tour, Mr Zhang said Lamu Port has significant potential to attract more vessel traffic and support regional trade because of its modern infrastructure and location along major international shipping routes.

The assessment comes as the port continues to register strong growth in cargo handling and vessel calls.

Lamu Port General Manager Capt. Abdulaziz Mzee said cargo throughput more than doubled to 1,697,660 metric tonnes during the review period, up from 799,161 metric tonnes recorded during the corresponding period last year.

He added that vessel traffic also increased, with the port receiving 169 ship calls,compared to 162 over the same period last year.

Capt. Abdulaziz attributed the improved performance to greater operational efficiency and the port's strategic position on the East African coastline.

He noted that most vessels calling at Lamu are engaged in transshipment, underlining the port's growing importance as shipping lines seek efficient logistics hubs to serve regional and international markets.

The visit formed part of broader Kenya-China maritime cooperation aimed at enhancing port operations through technology, automation and knowledge exchange.

The Port of Lamu, a key component of the Lamu Port-South Sudan-Ethiopia Transport (LAPSSET) Corridor, is expected to play an increasingly important role in facilitating trade within the region while complementing operations at the Port of Mombasa.

KPA says the sustained growth in cargo volumes and vessel traffic reinforces Lamu's emergence as a strategic gateway for East Africa and strengthens Kenya's ambition to become a leading regional maritime and logistics hub.