KPA, Nanjing Port Expand Partnership to Boost Smart Tech

The Kenya Ports Authority (KPA) held high-level talks with a delegation from China’s Nanjing Port on strengthening cooperation in port operations, technology and knowledge exchange.

The talks come as the Authority pushes ahead with modernising the Port of Mombasa.

However, KPA Chief Executive Officer Capt. William Ruto led the discussions with the visiting delegation from Nanjing Port, described as the world’s largest inland port.

The meeting was held under the Sister Port Cooperation Initiative. The Nanjing Port Mombasa talks focused on possible collaboration in automation, digital transformation, smart gate systems and data analytics.

Nanjing Port Mombasa Talks Target Smart Tech

According to Ruto, the talks centred on using technology to position Mombasa as the region’s leading maritime trade hub.

He added that Chinese partnerships have contributed significantly to the port’s expansion and modernisation over the years.

Meanwhile, the Port of Mombasa serves a hinterland of more than 250 million people. That hinterland spans Kenya, Uganda, Rwanda, Burundi, the Democratic Republic of Congo, South Sudan and Ethiopia.

In addition, the port includes Kilindini Harbour, Port Reitz, the Old Port, Port Tudor and the tidal waters around Mombasa Island.

As part of its digital overhaul, Ruto said KPA is in the early stages of replacing its SAP Enterprise Resource Planning system.

The new platform, IFS Cloud, is meant to improve efficiency and integrate business processes. Furthermore, he said the plan covers electronic document management, integrated billing and real-time reporting.

Nanjing Delegation Tours Mombasa Port

General Manager Zhang Chuanping led the Nanjing delegation, which included officials Nan Zhenjiang, Wang Xueqing and Pan Lei.

According to Chuanping, the Nanjing Port Mombasa partnership aims to improve trade, traffic and services between the two ports. However, he also commended progress at Mombasa and toured key infrastructure projects during the visit.

Meanwhile, senior KPA officials briefed the delegation on operational performance and investment opportunities.

As a result, both sides pointed to Nanjing’s expertise in cargo handling equipment as an area for further collaboration.