KPA Automates Cargo Processing and Payment at Mombasa Port

The government through Kenya Ports Authority [KPA] has implemented capacity expansion projects at the port of Mombasa.

Newly appointed KPA Managing Director captain William Ruto said this entails the completion of phase two of the second container terminal which has increased port capacity to 2.1 million twenty-foot equivalent units (TEUs) annually.

He added that the state corporation has implemented various projects at the port.

“This includes the automation of port services including cargo processing and payment services which can now be done online,” he stated.

Ruto announced that recently the authority introduced the E-Citizen platform aimed at streamlining cargo clearance and payment processes.

He was making his first official speech since he was elevated during the flagging off of the World Food Program (WFP) relief food at the port of Mombasa. Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua presided over the ceremony.

READ ALSO: KPA MD moves to restructure port management

The KPA MD said the E-Citizen platform will be offering real-time consignment tracking for shipments to both agents and consignees who can also view invoices and make payments online.

Ruto reiterated the ongoing programs are to support growth of the Special Economic Zone (SEZs) where KPA is collaborating with other government agencies to actualize the plans at Dongo Kundu.

He pointed out the developments will boost manufacturing and growth of industries in Kenya.

“KPA is constructing a berth at Dongo Kundu to aid the importation and exportation of finished products,” he said.

The KPA boss said the rehabilitation of Kisumu Port has seen cargo volumes through the facility rise steadily since 2018 and now receives vessels from Port Bell, Jinja and Mwanza ports in the Lake Victoria region.

Ruto disclosed between 2018 and 2020 the Port of Mombasa has handled over 250,000 metric tons of cargo and over 5000 containers and cargo of both food and non-food items like motor vehicles destined for Kenya and the region.

Ruto added through the collaboration they have also remained receptive to supporting the WFP by extending port waivers in deserving cases.

“In 2018/2019, for instance, KPA exempted WFP from paying port remarshalling charges,” he said.