In recent years, container handling volumes at the Port of Mombasa have more than doubled over the past decade, now surpassing 1 million TEUs annually.
To meet this growing demand, the Kenya Ports Authority (KPA) implemented several key initiatives to boost capacity—introducing advanced IT systems, installing modern handling equipment, and constructing new container terminals.
However, cargo congestion remains a significant challenge, largely due to ageing berths and limited yard space. Despite these vital improvements, the capacity of the existing container berths remains under pressure.
As part of its ongoing expansion efforts, KPA requested assistance from the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) to help finance the Mombasa Port Development Project Phase II, which focuses on the construction of the project’s second phase to further enhance the port’s infrastructure and operational efficiency.
The design of the terminal was informed by outputs from ship simulations conducted in the port channel and at berthing points, ensuring accuracy in the structural calculations of the berths. The design of various port facilities adhered to internationally recognised standards, including AASHTO, ASTM, Eurocodes, and others.
The project brought together highly qualified engineers from Japan, Asia, Europe, and Kenya, fostering significant capacity building and technology transfer to local engineers.
The tendering process was conducted in full compliance with the Public Procurement and Disposal Act (2015) and guided by FIDIC White and Red Books—covering every stage from tendering and evaluation to award, contract signing, and contract management.
An Environmental and Social Impact Assessment (ESIA) was undertaken during the detailed design phase to establish baseline data for sea water turbidity, air quality, noise, and vibration levels. These parameters were closely monitored throughout the construction phase by an ISO-certified local environmental firm, ensuring that baseline levels were not exceeded. If any thresholds were surpassed, appropriate mitigation measures—approved by NEMA—were implemented by the contractor.
Both terrestrial and aquatic flora and fauna were surveyed during the design stage, and any changes were monitored during construction. In instances where mangrove trees had to be removed, over 3,000 mangrove seedlings were replanted nearby. This replanting initiative was subcontracted to a local community-based organisation, thereby contributing to local economic empowerment.
To support fishing communities affected by the project, the client provided compensation, constructed a community social hall, and delivered larger motorised deep-sea fishing boats and modern fishing gear. Additionally, cold storage facilities were built to help fishermen preserve their catch.
The Port of Mombasa serves a population of over 400 million people in East Africa, who rely heavily on imported goods from Asia and Europe—facilitating development in sectors such as agriculture, industrialisation, education, healthcare, construction, security, green energy, and employment creation. An efficient, high-performing port helps reduce logistics costs, lowering the cost of goods and, ultimately, the cost of living.
Furthermore, the port creates an enabling environment for the export of agricultural products and minerals, thereby increasing foreign currency inflows within the East African Community (EAC). As a result, the Kenya Ports Authority (KPA) has seen a notable increase in revenue, contributing significantly to Kenya’s national tax base.
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BAC Engineering Services LTD
Kenya Ports Authority
