By Issa Hussein - Reporter
Kenya, May 26, 2026 - The Port of Mombasa has marked a major milestone in maritime sustainability after receiving CMA CGM Adventure, the first large gas-powered container vessel to dock at the Kenyan port.
The vessel, operated by global shipping giant CMA CGM, arrived at the port during its maiden call, signalling a shift towards cleaner and environmentally sustainable shipping in the region.
Unlike conventional cargo ships that run on heavy fuel oil, CMA CGM Adventure operates primarily on Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG), significantly reducing carbon emissions and eliminating the thick exhaust clouds commonly associated with traditional vessels.
Kenya Ports Authority (KPA) described the arrival as a historic moment for the Port of Mombasa and the wider maritime sector.
“CMA CGM Adventure marks a historic feat as the first large, gas-powered container ship to dock at the Port of Mombasa,” KPA said in a statement.
Speaking during the traditional reception ceremony for first-time vessel calls, KPA Managing Director Capt. William Ruto said the docking of the vessel reflects the ongoing transformation in global maritime trade as the industry embraces greener technologies.
“These vessels are now the norm as the industry goes green and champions sustainability and conservation of the environment,” said Capt. Ruto.
He added that more environmentally friendly vessels are expected to call at Mombasa and other regional ports in the coming years.
The arrival comes at a time when the global shipping industry is under increasing pressure to cut emissions amid tightening international climate regulations and growing demand for cleaner supply chains.
KPA said the Port of Mombasa is positioning itself as a climate-smart logistics hub through implementation of its Green Ports Policy.
The authority has been expanding solar energy installations within port facilities, introducing hybrid cargo-handling equipment and rolling out shore power technology that allows ships to switch off engines while docked and connect directly to electricity supplied from land.
Mangrove restoration initiatives along the coast are also ongoing as part of efforts to enhance carbon absorption and support marine ecosystem conservation.
According to CMA CGM, the vessel was built in late 2024 and measures 268 metres in length with a beam of 43 metres and a carrying capacity of 7,378 Twenty-foot Equivalent Units (TEUs).
The company said the ship represents its “strong commitment towards sustainable maritime transport and operational excellence.”
The docking of CMA CGM Adventure places Mombasa among a growing list of ports worldwide adapting to the new era of low-emission maritime transport.
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