The Kenya Ports Authority has acquired three new ship-to-shore cranes for the Lamu Port, worth Kshs 4 billion, aimed at boosting transshipment business across the country’s Northern corridor.

Speaking to the media during the launch of the three ultra-modern state-of-the-art cranes at Kililana Port, KPA Managing Director Captain William Ruto stated that the three cranes would increase the port’s capacity to handle any shipment coming from the Middle East or China.

“These cutting-edge cranes, equipped with advanced technology and capabilities, will revolutionize our operations and position the port as a global maritime hub,” Ruto said.

He said the procurement of the cranes underscores their commitment to managing their premier ports, which serve as vital gateways for regional and international trade.

The arrival of the three state-of-the-art Super Post Panamax Ship-to-Shore (STS) gantry cranes aboard a heavy loader carrier, MV Zhen Hua 24, will position the Port of Lamu as a transshipment hub.

The Sh310 billion Lamu Port roared to life on May 20, 2021, after the operationalisation of the first berth by former President Uhuru Kenyatta.

It became the second commercial port in Kenya and is expected to transform the shipping and maritime industry in Africa.

The port of Lamu is envisaged to have a total of 23 modern berths with a quay length of 400 metres each and a depth of minus 17.5 metres capable of accommodating Panamax and new Panamax vessels, with a capacity of over 10,000 TEUs.