MOMBASA

• Latitude: -4.0475
•
• Longitude: 39.635
•
• East Africa
•
• Port in Kenya

Address: Mombasa Mombasa County 80100 Kenya

Web-site: http://www.kpa.co.ke/

Mombasa, the principal seaport of Kenya, is one of the most significant ports along the East African coast. The port is strategically positioned on the Indian Ocean and serves not only Kenya but also several other landlocked countries in East and Central Africa, including Uganda, Rwanda, Burundi, South Sudan, and parts of the Democratic Republic of Congo. As a crucial gateway for maritime trade in the region, Mombasa port plays a pivotal role in facilitating import and export activities that are vital to the economies of these countries.

Port Specifications and Features:

General Information:

• Location: Latitude 4° 04' S, Longitude 39° 40' E
• UN LOCODE: KEMBA
• Type of Port: Natural deep-water harbor
• Operating Entity: Kenya Ports Authority (KPA)

Terminal Facilities:

1. Container Terminals:

   • Berths 16 to 19: These berths are used primarily for container operations.
   • Mombasa Container Terminal (MCT): Equipped with modern cargo handling facilities. Berth 19 is part of this terminal, and there is also ongoing development to expand the container-handling capacity with the new Kipevu Container Terminal (KCT).

2. General Cargo Berths:

   • Berths 1 to 14: These berths handle a variety of cargo including bulk grains, cement, fertilizers, and general merchandise.

3. Specialized Terminals:

   • Grain Bulk Handlers Limited (GBHL): Handles bulk grain and cereals.
   • Oil Terminal (Kipevu Oil Terminal): Located on Mombasa Island and deals with the import and export of petroleum products.

Draft and Size:

• Channel Depth: Approximately 17 meters (55.8 feet) at the main entrance channel.
• Berth Depth: Varies from 10.5 meters (34.4 feet) to 15 meters (49.2 feet), depending on the specific berth.
• Turning Basin: The port has a turning basin with a diameter of about 600 meters, aiding in the maneuvering of large vessels.

Cargo Handling Equipment:

• Container Cranes: Modern gantry cranes with the capacity to handle large container vessels.
• Mobile Cranes and Forklifts: For general cargo operations.
• Bulk Handling Equipment: For dry and liquid bulk cargoes.

Storage and Logistics:

• Container Yards: Equipped with specialized stacking areas for containers, including refrigerated containers.
• Warehouses: Extensive covered storage facilities for various types of goods.
• Open Storage Areas: For vehicles, heavy machinery, and other oversized cargo.

Navigational Aids:

• Pilotage: Mandatory. The port provides pilot services for vessels navigating in and out of the harbor.
• Tugboats: Available to assist with docking and undocking of vessels.
• Buoys and Beacons: Modern navigational aids to ensure safe navigation within the port.

Connectivity:

• Road Network: Well-connected to the national and regional road network, facilitating the movement of goods to and from the port.
• Rail Transport: The Standard Gauge Railway (SGR) provides a rapid and efficient link between Mombasa and Nairobi, with plans for further extension to other parts of the region.
• Pipeline: The port is connected to a network of pipelines for the transportation of liquid bulk products.

Services:

• Customs: Comprehensive customs and excise services to facilitate quick clearance of goods.
• Ship Repair: Dry dock and ship repair facilities available.
• Bunkering: Fuel and water supply services for vessels.

Future Developments:

Ongoing and planned expansions at the port of Mombasa aim to increase its capacity and efficiency to accommodate growing trade volumes. This includes the development of new berths, improvement of existing infrastructure, and investment in advanced cargo handling technology.

Economic Impact:

Mombasa port significantly contributes to the Kenyan economy by providing employment opportunities and facilitating international trade. Its strategic importance has also made it a central hub for regional integration and economic cooperation in East Africa.

Conclusion:

Mombasa port's state-of-the-art facilities and strategic location make it a vital asset for Kenya and the surrounding region. Its commitment to expansion and modernization ensures it remains competitive in the global maritime industry.