The Kenya Ports Authority has installed three new Ship-to-Shore gantry cranes at the Lamu Port.
The STS cranes acquired from China at a cost of Sh4 billion are anticipated to improve operations at Kenya’s second commercial port.
On Saturday, KPA managing director William Ruto stated that the acquisition of the cranes will be a game changer for the port, predicting a paradigm shift in transhipment activity across the region.
“With a reach of 24 containers across and the ability to handle modern vessels over 18,000 TEUs, these cranes are equipped to compete with the best ports in the world and attract Super Post Panamax vessels,” Ruto said.
He added that the crane acquisition demonstrates their dedication to managing their prime ports, which serve as critical gateways for regional and worldwide trade.
Since its opening in May 2021, Lamu port has handled 59 boats, resulting in a significant rise in freight and container traffic.
Last year, the Port of Lamu handled 37,576 tonnes of cargo, up significantly from 6,539 tonnes in 2022 and representing a 31,037-tonne gain.
Container traffic increased significantly, with 1,779 twenty-foot equivalent units recorded last year compared to 382 TEUs in 2022, a 1,397 TEU increase.
The port is a crucial component in the Lamu Port-South Sudan-Ethiopia Transport Corridor project, which is expected to connect Kenya, South Sudan, and Ethiopia.
