Efforts to improve efficiency at the Port of Mombasa have taken a new turn as the Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) and Kenya Ports Authority (KPA) announce a set of reforms aimed at reducing cargo congestion and speeding up clearance procedures.
The measures, revealed on Saturday, January 24, are intended to create a smoother, more predictable port experience for traders and businesses.
KRA Commissioner General Humphrey Wattanga described the initiatives as a strategic move to transform the port into a more efficient, digital, and reliable gateway for regional and international trade.
A central aspect of the reforms is relocating cargo that has overstayed at the port for more than 21 days to designated container freight stations. The operation will begin at the G-section of the port, freeing critical yard space and easing congestion.
“The Port of Mombasa is not only a national asset but a critical regional gateway. Our objective is to eliminate bottlenecks, reduce cargo dwell time and build a predictable and efficient clearance system," Wattanga said.
To fast-track cargo handling, KRA plans to expand pre-arrival processing, giving priority to bulk shipments, low-risk cargo, and consignments from authorised economic operators. This approach will allow goods to be processed even before reaching the port, reducing delays and improving planning for businesses.
The revenue authority also announced steps to address recurring shortages of Regional Electronic Cargo Tracking System (RECTS) seals. A multi-vendor model will be introduced through an open expression of interest, a move Wattanga says will "strengthen system resilience, ensure uninterrupted cargo tracking, and eliminate disruptions associated with seal shortages."
In collaboration with Kenya Railways Corporation, KRA and KPA will deploy additional Standard Gauge Railway wagons to move cargo faster to Embakasi and Naivasha container depots.
Plans are also underway to increase the use of Lamu Port for transhipment cargo, easing the burden on Kilindini and unlocking the potential of Kenya’s northern maritime gateway.
To improve empty container management, KPA has set aside a dedicated site within the port for stacking and handling these units.
The reforms were unveiled at a high-level meeting chaired by Wattanga and KPA Managing Director William Ruto, bringing together key stakeholders from the maritime and logistics sectors to discuss the future of port operations.
