Mombasa Port stakeholders have lauded the national government’s decision to inject Sh41 billion into the expansion of the Port of Mombasa.

They said the move will boost efficiency, competitiveness, and create more jobs.

Two weeks ago, President William Ruto announced the expansion plan, citing the port’s rapid growth in cargo volumes.

He noted that in the past three years, the Kenya Ports Authority (KPA) had increased its handling capacity from 1.4 million to 2 million containers, underscoring the need for further expansion.

“I will be back here before the end of the year to start the expansion of the Mombasa Port. The Government of Kenya has committed another Sh41 billion to make the port more efficient, bigger, and better for all users,” President Ruto said.

The President also revealed that the Sh65 billion Dongo Kundu Special Economic Zone (SEZ) will be launched before the end of the year.

The SEZ will host manufacturing, logistics, and industrial facilities, creating thousands of jobs for coastal residents.

On Tuesday, a section of port stakeholders, including the Cardinal Youth Association and several small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), welcomed both the port expansion and the Dongo Kundu SEZ.

Capital Youth Caucus Secretary General Evans Momanyi praised the current KPA leadership under Managing Director Captain William Ruto and Chairman Benjamin Tayari for delivering historic milestones in line with constitutional and policy frameworks.

“The recent directive by President William Ruto allocating Sh41 billion to KPA for expansion is a clear vote of confidence in the authority’s leadership and strategic importance,” said Momany.

He further highlighted the operationalization of Shimoni Port and the progress on Dongo Kundu as steps toward inclusive growth.

He also commended KPA for fairly compensating over 1,900 squatters in Dongo Kundu.

He also praised the KPA for doing business with more than 6,000 companies owned by women, youth, and persons with disabilities.

Momanyi warned against attempts by “a few self-seeking individuals” to drag KPA employees and stakeholders into narrow political battles.

“We call upon all stakeholders, employees, and the wider community to desist from unnecessary drama and instead rally behind KPA management as they continue to transform Kenya’s ports for the benefit of present and future generations,” he said.