The United Kingdom has pledged to support the Kenya Ports Authority (KPA) in implementing its strategic development plan through partnerships in infrastructure development, technological innovation and investment.
The commitment was made 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, who commended KPA’s efforts to strengthen the port’s position as a regional maritime and logistics hub.
The two envoys reaffirmed the longstanding bilateral relations between Kenya and the UK, highlighting opportunities to expand trade, investment and cooperation in the maritime sector.
“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,” said High Commissioner Baugh.
The proposed collaboration is expected to focus on infrastructure gaps and investment opportunities within the port’s Special Economic Zones, which are intended to support industrial activity, trade and logistics.
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.
Captain Ruto outlined several areas where Kenya and the UK could deepen cooperation, including the Smart Gate initiative, carbon emissions reduction programmes, technology exchange and cold-chain logistics.
He said the initiatives could contribute to improved port efficiency, sustainable operations and stronger overall performance as Kenya seeks to reinforce its role in regional and international maritime trade.
The KPA chief executive also identified ongoing and planned infrastructure projects, including the Dongo Kundu Special Economic Zone and the Port of Lamu, as potential 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,” said Captain Ruto.
The engagement comes as Kenya continues to position its maritime sector as a driver of economic growth, with port infrastructure, logistics services and the blue economy offering opportunities for investment and regional trade.
Stronger cooperation between Kenya and the UK could support infrastructure development, technological innovation and sustainable port operations while opening further opportunities for businesses operating across the maritime and logistics value chain.
