By Akanimo Sampson
Kenya Ports Authority (KPA) says its Lamu port construction in Coastal Kenya will be operational in June this year. Three berths of the port are already completed.
Head of KPA’s Corporate Affairs, Bernard Osero, says China Communications Construction Company (CCCC) has completed construction of the first three berths of the port.
“Lamu port will specialise in handling containers and oil cargo between the east African hinterland and the rest of the world. The new facility will enable Kenya to become a gateway of choice for Ethiopia, South Sudan and Somalia”, he said.
He further mentioned that Lamu port construction will also complement the existing Port of Mombasa because it is a natural deep port that can handle larger sea vessels.
The government of Kenya funded the construction of the 1st three berths under a plan referred to as the “Short-term Plan” that is estimated to cost $689m, accounting for: dredging and reclamation; construction of berths and yards.
Construction of revetment, causeway and road; construction of buildings and utilities including Port headquarters, Port Police Station and Port Management Housing Scheme; procurement of equipment and tug boats; and Electric Power Connection to the National Grid and establishment of Water Reticulation Network among others.
The government has structured the remaining 29 berths to be handed over to private sector investors for financing, construction and operation.
