By Issa Hussein - Reporter
Kenya, June 23, 2026 - Kenya's transport and logistics sector has been identified as a critical pillar for economic growth and regional trade, with government and industry leaders calling for closer collaboration to improve efficiency, reduce costs, and enhance the country's competitiveness.
Speaking during the Shippers Council of East Africa (SCEA) Stakeholder Forum and Annual General Meeting, Principal Secretary for Transport Mohamed Daghar said the future success of Kenya's trade and logistics industry will depend on strong partnerships, innovation, and the adoption of efficient systems.
Daghar emphasized that while the government is responsible for policy development and infrastructure investment, the private sector plays a vital role in identifying challenges and shaping practical solutions.
He urged stakeholders across the logistics value chain to work together in addressing delays, lowering the cost of doing business, and strengthening Kenya's position as a leading regional trade and transit hub.
"The private sector is an indispensable partner in identifying bottlenecks, providing real-time evidence, and proposing practical solutions to operational challenges," Daghar said, noting that policy interventions are most effective when informed by industry experience.
At the forum, Kenya Ports Authority (KPA) Managing Director Captain William Ruto outlined ongoing efforts to modernise port operations and improve service delivery.
He said KPA is implementing system upgrades and operational improvements aimed at enhancing efficiency and reducing turnaround times at the Port of Mombasa and other facilities.
According to Ruto, the authority is working closely with cargo handlers, clearing agents, transporters, and other stakeholders to address operational constraints and facilitate smoother movement of goods.
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He added that stakeholder feedback continues to inform investment decisions designed to improve trade facilitation and boost the competitiveness of Kenya's ports.
Shippers Council of East Africa Chairman John Msafari welcomed the growing cooperation between government agencies and private sector players, saying the partnership is crucial for the continued growth of the logistics industry.
Msafari noted that regular engagement has helped align regulatory requirements with business realities, reducing challenges along the supply chain and creating a more conducive environment for trade.
The forum brought together representatives from key institutions, including the Kenya Bureau of Standards (KEBS), the Kenya Trade Network Agency (KenTrade), and other sector stakeholders.
Participants discussed the current state of shipping and logistics in the region and called for sustained multi-agency coordination, policy consistency, and stronger private sector participation to maintain Kenya's position as a competitive gateway for regional and international trade