Modern Cruise Terminal has Boosted Kenya’s Capacity- Ruto

The state-of-the-art cruise terminal at the port of Mombasa was built to modern standards.

Kenya Ports Authority [KPA] Managing Director Captain William Ruto said it was constructed with various amenities including duty free shops, restaurants, conference facilities, passenger luggage areas and offices for key stakeholders in the industry.

He pointed out that the modern cruise terminal at the port has significantly boosted Kenya’s capacity and competitiveness for cruise tourism in the continent.

“In the recent cruise tourism circuit season that ended in April this year, the Port of Mombasa received four vessel calls carrying over 4000 passengers,” he added.

Ruto defended the authority for constructing the state-of-the-art cruise terminal at the port as an expansion strategy to support tourism.

The remarks were contained in a speech read on his behalf by KPA Corporate Affairs Manager Benard Osero during the official opening of MV Logos Hope floating library to members of the public along the Mbaraki Wharf at the port of Mombasa in Mombasa county. Tourism Cabinet Secretary Peninah Malonza presided over the ceremony.

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The KPA MD assured the forum that the authority remains steadfast in improving the port facilities to remain competitive not only in cargo handling services but also in the promotion of the country as a cruise tourism destination.

Tapping Cruise Tourism

He added that this is bearing in mind that cruise tourism is the fastest growing maritime sector in the world.

“We are positive about this as the industry bounces back from the Covid-19 pandemic effects,” he pointed out.

The KPA boss reiterated the port facility will once again see the authority bounce back and getting busy on cruise vessel calls.

Ruto disclosed the authority is working closely with cruise tourism stakeholders in the region under the leadership of the Cruise Africa Association and Port Management Association of Eastern and Southern Africa.

He pointed out that this in an effort to market the Indian Ocean rim as a cruise destination.

“This region includes all ports and countries along the Indian Ocean so as to package a great exciting itinerary that presents ports, game parks and historical attractions,” he said.