East African ports have made significant progress in recent years, catching up with their West African counterparts in terms of infrastructure, efficiency, and connectivity. This is due to a number of factors, including increased investment, improved management, and a focus on regional cooperation.
One of the most notable developments has been the expansion of port capacity in East Africa. The Port of Mombasa in Kenya, for example, has undergone a major upgrade that has doubled its capacity to 2.5 million twenty-foot equivalent units (TEUs) per year. The Port of Dar es Salaam in Tanzania is also undergoing a major expansion, which is expected to increase its capacity to 5.5 million TEUs per year by 2025.
In addition to expanding capacity, East African ports are also investing in new technologies to improve efficiency and service quality. For example, the Port of Mombasa has implemented a new electronic document management system that has reduced the time it takes to clear cargo by 50%. The Port of Dar es Salaam is also investing in new equipment, such as automated cranes and trucks, to improve the speed and efficiency of cargo handling.
East African ports are also working to improve their connectivity with other transport modes. For example, the Port of Mombasa is now connected to the Standard Gauge Railway, which provides a fast and efficient way to transport cargo to and from the port. The Port of Dar es Salaam is also connected to the Central Railway Corridor, which provides access to markets in Rwanda, Burundi, and the Democratic Republic of the Congo.
The progress made by East African ports in recent years is good news for businesses and consumers in the region. It means that goods can be imported and exported more quickly and efficiently, which can help to lower costs and boost trade. It also means that consumers have access to a wider range of goods at more competitive prices.
The development of East African ports is also a positive development for the region as a whole. It can help to attract new investment and create jobs. It can also help to promote regional integration and cooperation.
Source: Theafricareport