South Korea has reaffirmed its commitment to supporting the Kenya Ports Authority (KPA) in modernising port operations, with the two countries seeking to deepen cooperation in technology transfer, infrastructure development and capacity building.
The partnership is expected to accelerate KPA’s digital transformation efforts and strengthen the competitiveness of the Port of Mombasa as a key gateway to East and Central Africa.
The commitment was made on Wednesday when South Korean Ambassador to Kenya Kang Hyung-shik paid a courtesy call on KPA CEO William Ruto to discuss areas of continued collaboration in the maritime sector.
Kang said the longstanding bilateral relationship between Kenya and South Korea had created opportunities for cooperation in infrastructure development, innovation and the exchange of technical expertise.
He said Seoul remained ready to support Kenya’s efforts to modernise its maritime infrastructure by sharing technology and expertise gained from South Korea’s advanced port operations.
“South Korea will continue supporting KPA through the sharing of advanced port technologies, digital solutions and best practices in maritime operations,” Kang said.
The ambassador said greater collaboration would help strengthen Kenya’s capacity to adopt modern systems while improving efficiency and service delivery in the maritime sector.
Ruto welcomed the continued partnership, saying KPA had benefited from strong ties with Korean shipping lines, logistics companies and other maritime stakeholders.
“KPA has benefited from strong relationships with Korean shipping lines, logistics firms and maritime stakeholders that have facilitated growth in international trade through the Port of Mombasa,” Ruto said.
He said the Authority would seek to build on the existing relationship by expanding collaboration with leading Korean ports and maritime institutions.
“We will continue strengthening collaboration with leading Korean ports to accelerate digitalisation, improve service delivery and enhance the competitiveness of the Port of Mombasa as the preferred gateway to East and Central Africa,” he said.
The cooperation comes as KPA continues to embrace digital technologies aimed at improving port efficiency and facilitating smoother movement of cargo through Mombasa.
The adoption of advanced digital systems is expected to improve coordination between shipping lines, logistics firms, clearing agents and other stakeholders involved in the movement of goods.
The partnership also provides Kenya with an opportunity to benefit from South Korea’s experience in port development, automation, digitalisation and maritime logistics.
The Port of Mombasa is a major entry and exit point for goods destined for Kenya and neighbouring countries, making its efficiency critical to regional trade and economic growth.
The latest engagement builds on the growing economic relationship between Kenya and South Korea, particularly following President William Ruto’s 2024 State Visit to Seoul.
The visit focused on expanding cooperation in trade, investment, technology and infrastructure, with both countries seeking to deepen economic ties.
The two countries are expected to continue exploring opportunities for technology transfer, skills development, infrastructure investment and knowledge exchange as Kenya seeks to position Mombasa as a modern and competitive regional maritime hub.
