The Port of Mombasa has successfully maintained its position as the main gateway for Uganda’s imports and exports, despite increasing competition from Tanzania’s Port of Dar es Salaam and rising cargo traffic from South Sudan.
According to recent data from the Kenya Ports Authority (KPA), Uganda accounted for 65.7% of Mombasa’s total transit market in 2024. This translated to 8.81 million tonnes of cargo moved through the port for Uganda-bound trade.
However, this marks a slight decline from the 70% share Uganda held the previous year, a dip attributed to growing South Sudanese cargo volumes and efforts by Dar es Salaam Port to attract more regional business.
Speaking during a visit by the KPA Board of Directors to Kampala, Kenya’s Deputy Head of Mission in Uganda, Suleiman Roba, reaffirmed Uganda’s importance as a strategic trade partner for Kenya.
“Uganda will continue to be the leading transit market for the Port of Mombasa,” said Roba.
“Thanks to the consistent efforts by KPA and infrastructural developments, we are confident Uganda will remain our key partner.”
Roba made the remarks while receiving the KPA board, led by Chairman Benjamin Tayari, who was in Uganda to highlight ongoing developments at the port and seek enhanced regional cooperation.
During the visit, Chairman Tayari outlined several major infrastructure projects designed to boost the port’s competitiveness. These include:
Expansion of Berth 19B
Upgrading the Terminal Operating System
Acquisition of modern cargo-handling equipment
Improvements at Kisumu Port to support lake transport
Progress on the Dongo Kundu Special Economic Zone, which is expected to attract major regional investors
“We are investing in facilities and systems that will ensure the port continues to serve Uganda and the region more efficiently,” said Tayari.
The KPA delegation also visited the Kampala liaison office located at Crested Towers, which was set up to serve Uganda more directly. The office has been operational since 1996 and was officially opened in April 2004.
Board members praised the local team for strengthening ties with Ugandan stakeholders and ensuring smooth operations between the port and inland clients.
During the visit, KPA requested enhanced diplomatic and business collaboration to promote port services and boost investor confidence in Kenya’s logistics sector. This includes joint marketing initiatives and government support for strategic logistics hubs like Dongo Kundu.
Kenya views Uganda not only as a key trade partner but also as a critical link in the success of the Northern Corridor, the main trade route from Mombasa into East and Central Africa.
While the Port of Mombasa faces growing competition from Dar es Salaam and the emerging trade needs of South Sudan, it remains firmly positioned as Uganda’s primary trade route.
With continuous investments, closer diplomatic ties, and improved regional logistics, both countries stand to benefit from a strong and evolving partnership.
