(LAMU) – Lamu Port in Kenya is experiencing its busiest period since opening, with ten container ships scheduled to dock over the next two weeks, marking a significant milestone for the regional trade hub. The surge is being driven by French shipping line CMA CGM, which is increasing its visits to the deep-water port and enhancing Lamu’s position as a key node in East Africa’s shipping network.
The vessel MV Lobivia recently arrived from Mombasa carrying 592 containers, which are set to be re-shipped to Zanzibar aboard the MV Gulf Express, a first-time caller at Lamu. The Kenya Ports Authority (KPA) reported that vessel activity at the port has reached record levels, reflecting growing interest from major global shipping lines to deploy ultra-large vessels to the port.
This milestone follows the arrival of MV Nagoya, the longest vessel ever to dock at an East African port at 335 metres, just a week earlier. The 299-metre MV Tolten also called at Lamu, demonstrating the port’s increasing appeal thanks to its modern berths and spacious turning basin, capable of accommodating large ships.
Captain AbdulAziz Mzee, General Manager of Lamu Port, said the port’s growing activity signals its importance in regional trade and its role in the Lamu Port South Sudan Ethiopia Transport (LAPSSET) Corridor, which aims to connect Kenya with South Sudan and Ethiopia. The KPA has announced plans to acquire additional equipment to handle rising trade volumes and further strengthen the port’s operations.
During its maiden call, MV Lobivia’s master, Captain Victor Bushyn, was presented with a certificate marking the vessel’s first visit to Lamu.
