Turning Lamu Port into the Tanger Med of East Africa

By Andrew Mwangura 

Email, thecoastnewspaper@gmail.com

East Africa has long been a region brimming with economic potential, yet one of its most vital infrastructural assets has remained underutilized: the Lamu Port in Kenya.

With the ambitious vision of transforming Lamu Port into a leading gateway for the region’s trade, it is crucial to draw inspiration from successful global port models, most notably Tanger Med Port in Morocco.

Tanger Med has grown to be one of the largest and most efficient ports in the Mediterranean, and with the right strategic investments, Lamu could follow a similar trajectory to become the Tanger Med of East Africa.

Game-Changer for East Africa

The vision for Lamu Port is clear: to develop it into a world-class, multi-functional maritime hub, capable of handling both transshipment and direct cargo, while serving as the entry and exit point for goods moving to and from the heart of East Africa. 

Currently, Lamu’s potential remains untapped, with Kenya’s primary shipping activities concentrated in the port of Mombasa. 

However, Lamu is strategically located, providing access to the Indian Ocean and acting as a gateway to landlocked countries such as South Sudan and Ethiopia. Leveraging Lamu’s potential would significantly reduce pressure on Mombasa Port, increase regional trade, and make Kenya a central player in the maritime world.

Tanger Med Port, with its state-of-the-art infrastructure, advanced logistics, and strategic location, has become a model for the efficient movement of goods and people across North Africa and Europe.

By creating similar conditions at Lamu, Kenya could position itself as a key trading hub in East Africa and even on the global stage. This transformation, however, would require far-reaching changes, both in policy and infrastructure development.

Massive Infrastructure Investment

The first step to achieving this ambitious vision is a commitment to massive infrastructure development. Tanger Med did not emerge as a major port overnight; it was the result of years of meticulous planning and investment.

To replicate this success, Lamu Port must receive significant investment in infrastructure, not only to expand the port itself but also to improve connectivity to landlocked countries.

Lamu Port’s current expansion project is a good start, with phase one already complete and plans for further development underway. 

However, to rival Tanger Med, Lamu must focus on developing modern terminal facilities, deep-water channels to accommodate the largest container ships, and specialized berths for oil, gas, and bulk carriers.

Additionally, efficient and high-quality logistics hubs, such as container terminals and bonded warehouses, should be built around the port to enhance the region’s appeal to international shippers.

Enhanced Regional Connectivity

A key element in the success of Tanger Med is its connectivity to land routes across North Africa and beyond. Similarly, Lamu Port should be integrated into East Africa’s wider transport network to ensure that goods can seamlessly flow across land and sea.

The Lamu Port-South Sudan-Ethiopia Transport (LAPSSET) Corridor project is a vital part of this effort, as it connects Lamu to the landlocked countries of South Sudan and Ethiopia.

However, additional focus is needed on developing rail and road networks that link the port to inland hubs in Kenya, Uganda, Rwanda, and even the Democratic Republic of Congo.

Rail links are particularly important because they allow for the swift, cost-effective transportation of goods. A modern, high-capacity railway network running from Lamu to neighboring countries will make it easier for exporters and importers to move goods quickly across the region.

In addition, efficient road transport is necessary to move goods from the port to inland destinations that are not served by rail.

Technological Advancements and Innovation

One of the factors that propelled Tanger Med to prominence is its heavy investment in technology and automation, which has increased port efficiency and reduced congestion. 

For Lamu to reach the same level of efficiency, it needs to adopt cutting-edge technologies in port operations. This could include automated container handling, integrated customs systems, and the use of artificial intelligence and data analytics to optimize operations.

Moreover, digitalization can transform Lamu into a smart port, where systems for tracking shipments, managing cargo, and facilitating smooth customs procedures can be handled with minimal human intervention. This will reduce costs, improve turnaround times, and enhance the overall competitiveness of the port.

Public-Private Partnerships

The development of Lamu Port into a major regional hub will require cooperation between the Kenyan government, international investors, and private sector players. The government must provide the necessary regulatory framework, while private sector partners should bring in the capital, expertise, and innovation needed to develop and manage the port efficiently.

Public-private partnerships (PPPs) can ensure that the required investments are made without placing an excessive burden on taxpayers.

By encouraging private companies to participate in port development, the government can leverage global expertise and financial resources to accelerate the project. 

Additionally, the involvement of private stakeholders can help ensure that the port remains efficient and competitive once operational.

Environmental Sustainability

As with any major infrastructure project, environmental sustainability must be a top priority. The development of Lamu Port must be carried out in a way that minimizes environmental degradation, ensuring that the benefits of the port’s growth do not come at the expense of Kenya’s coastal ecosystem or the wider region.

This includes the implementation of sustainable port management practices, the use of green technologies, and rigorous environmental impact assessments to safeguard marine life. 

Creating a “green port” that prioritizes sustainability would not only preserve the environment but also attract international partners and investors who prioritize environmental stewardship.

Creating a Competitive Advantage

Lamu Port’s development should be accompanied by a concerted effort to make it a competitive alternative to other regional ports, such as Mombasa, Dar es Salaam, and Djibouti. 

This could involve offering lower shipping rates, improved customer service, and incentives for shipping lines to use Lamu as a transshipment hub.

Tanger Med’s rise was partly due to Morocco’s focus on making the port a competitive player in global trade through a favorable business environment, efficient customs procedures, and attractive pricing. 

Lamu can adopt a similar approach, ensuring that it becomes the preferred choice for both regional and international shipping.

The Future of East Africa’s Trade

The transformation of Lamu Port into the Tanger Med of East Africa is not only possible but also necessary for the region’s economic growth.

With strategic investment in infrastructure, technological innovation, and regional connectivity, Lamu could become the heart of East African trade, much like Tanger Med is to North Africa.

However, this transformation will require a clear vision, robust partnerships, and a long-term commitment to development.

By following the lessons learned from Tanger Med, Kenya has the opportunity to reshape its maritime future and lead East Africa into a new era of trade and economic prosperity.

The author is an independent maritime policy analyst with expertise in maritime economic

development