Lamu Port Sees Rising Vessel Calls as Cargo Volumes Signal Trade Uptick

The Port of Lamu is positioning itself for increased shipping activity in the coming weeks, signalling renewed momentum in cargo handling and strengthening its case as a regional transshipment hub.

According to William Ruto, early indicators show a steady rise in cargo volumes, underpinned by growing confidence from global shipping lines in the port’s operational capacity. The facility, Kenya’s second commercial seaport, is witnessing a gradual uptick in vessel calls, particularly from car carriers.

The port is expected to receive another car carrier next week, projected to offload about 5,000 motor vehicle units.

The anticipated shipment underscores increasing commercial activity and points to a shift by shippers exploring alternative entry points beyond the traditionally dominant Mombasa port.

The latest development comes as the port received MV Grande Florida Palermo on its maiden call. The vessel, operated by Grimaldi Lines, delivered 3,800 motor vehicle units alongside spare parts, highlighting Lamu’s growing role in handling specialised cargo such as automobiles.

The call follows closely on the heels of MV Grande Auckland, which docked a week earlier and discharged 469 units, bringing into focus a nascent but expanding automotive import channel through Lamu.

Data from the port shows that 74 vessels have called at Lamu since January, reflecting a gradual build-up in traffic. More notably, cargo throughput rose sharply to 799,161 metric tonnes last year from 74,380 metric tonnes in 2024, driven largely by containerised cargo.

The growth trajectory suggests that sustained investment in infrastructure and logistics at Lamu is beginning to translate into tangible volumes, although the port still faces the challenge of building consistent hinterland connectivity to fully unlock its potential.

With more shipping lines introducing regular services, the port is expected to record steady gains in throughput, positioning itself as a complementary gateway within the region’s maritime network.

During a tour of the facility, General Manager Abdulaziz Mzee assured stakeholders of adequate security and efficiency in cargo handling, key considerations for attracting long-term shipping commitments.