The United Kingdom has pledged to support the Kenya Ports Authority (KPA) in advancing the Port of Mombasa’s strategic development plan, with a focus on infrastructure development, technological innovation and investment.
The commitment was reaffirmed during a visit to the Port of Mombasa by British High Commissioner to Kenya Matt Baugh and Kenya’s High Commissioner to the United Kingdom, Ambassador Maurice Makoloo.
The two envoys commended KPA’s efforts to position the Port of Mombasa as a regional maritime and logistics hub, while highlighting opportunities to strengthen trade, investment and bilateral cooperation between Kenya and the UK.
Baugh said the UK was ready to collaborate with KPA on development and business opportunities within Special Economic Zones (SEZs), particularly in addressing critical infrastructure needs.
“We are willing to collaborate with the Port on potential development and business opportunities within the Special Economic Zones (SEZs), particularly in critical infrastructure needs such as power, road connectivity and other key infrastructure already identified by KPA,” Baugh said.
KPA Chief Executive Officer Captain William Ruto welcomed the UK Government’s continued support for port infrastructure development through various development partners, including TradeMark Africa.
Capt. Ruto identified several areas for potential collaboration, including the Smart Gate initiative, carbon emissions reduction programmes, technology exchange and cool logistics, noting that the initiatives could improve operational efficiency, sustainability and port performance.
He also highlighted the Dongo Kundu Special Economic Zone and the Port of Lamu as strategic investment opportunities for the UK Government and British investors.
“We look forward to strengthening our collaboration and partnership with the UK Government to attract investment into the blue economy and explore untapped opportunities in the maritime industry,” Capt. Ruto said.
The engagement comes as Kenya seeks to strengthen its maritime and logistics sector through infrastructure investment, modern technology and sustainable port operations.
The proposed cooperation is expected to provide opportunities for British investors to explore projects across the maritime and logistics value chain, while supporting Kenya’s ambition to expand the Port of Mombasa’s regional role.
Both countries reaffirmed their shared commitment to enhancing maritime cooperation, improving port efficiency and unlocking investment opportunities in the blue economy.
