KPA Acquires New Mooring Boat Valued at Ksh264 Million
By Harrison Kivisu
Email, thecoasnewspaper@gmail.com
Kenya Ports Authority has acquired a new mooring boat valued at Ksh264 million to boost and elevate the overall efficiency at the Port of Mombasa.
Kenya Ports Authority (KPA) managing director Captain William Ruto said the ultra-modern boats made locally was very effective and could compete with other boats acquired internationally.
“This boat was built here in Kenya by Kenyans and can compete with other boats made by other firms that have been building boats for us.
The engineers have confirmed that going forward Kenya is making strides and therefore we will to continue supporting Kenya in the maritime and shipping sector,” he said Captain.
The MD said the new acquisition of boat, KMB 9, represents a new beginning for many mariners in country.
According to him this brings the country closer to realise its dream of “Made in Kenya” marine vessels.
“This modern heavy-duty boat is easy to handle and is capable of withstanding rough weather at sea. It was specifically procured for the Port of Lamu which is exposed to such conditions.”
The boat measures 14.5 metres in length and features a twin-screw design, powered by two caterpillar engines (CAT C9.3 ACERT series), with power rating of 310 kW at 2100rpm, with a design service speed of 10 knots.
KMB-9 was built at a cost of USD 2.040 million with a delivery period of nine months.
The authority has made substantial investments and currently boasts a fleet that includes Six Tugboats: Four from Damen Shipyards (Netherlands), one from Cheoy Lee Shipyard (Hong Kong), and one from Med Marine Shipyard (Turkey).
Four Pilot Boats: three from Damen Shipyards (Netherlands), and one from Taiwan. Four Mooring Boats: All from Damen Shipyards (Netherlands) Two Security Patrol boats: From Croatia and Damen Shipyards. One Salvage Tugboat: From Med Marine Shipyards (Turkey).
Captain Ruto affirmed that the Port of Mombasa has recorded a significant growth in cargo volumes over the years with this year being on the verge of hitting the 2 million TEUs mark.
“New and existing shipping lines serving the region through the port have also introduced new services to the port. The impact has been more vessel calls at the port.
In response, the management of KPA has prioritised the development of port infrastructure through capacity,” he added.
