Inland container depots can increase the efficiency of port operations

SDV Transami Container Inland depot in Embakasi Nairobi taken November 13, 2009. PHOTO | FREDRICK ONYANGO | NATION MEDIA GROUP

Is there a plan to move port operations away from Mombasa? 

“…We have said that we are aware that there are plans to transfer the port operations from Mombasa to Naivasha…”

-          Mombasa Governor Hassan Joho at a Nasa Rally in Malindi, Kilifi County on July 2

During a Nasa Rally in Malindi, the Mombasa Governor delivered a scathing attack on the Jubilee Government, accusing them of planning to transfer the port operations of Mombasa in Kilindini Harbour to a dry port in Naivasha, a move that he said would negatively affect the economy of the people of Mombasa.

It is true that the government intends to set up a dry port at the proposed Naivasha Industrial Park. In a statement published by the Office of the President in May 26, 2015, the decision to set up a special economic zone at Naivasha was made after a meeting between President Kenyatta, his Deputy William Ruto and officials of China Roads and Bridges at Voi. It is within this economic zone that a dry port would be set up.

Cargo handled at the port of Mombasa has increased by 25 per cent, from 21.9 million tonnes in 2012 to 27.4 million tonnes in 2016.

Kenya Ports Authority already maintain inland container depots in Nairobi, Kisumu and Eldoret.

It is undeniable that some work would move from Mombasa to inland centres, and the governor is concerned people in Mombasa could lose jobs.

However, inland container depots can increase the efficiency of port operations, and bring port services closer to customers.