Kenya Ports Authority’s significant investment in reefer infrastructure aims to enhance the efficiency and cost-effectiveness of fresh produce exports from Mombasa to Naivasha, benefiting both local and regional exporters.

The Kenya Ports Authority (KPA) has taken a monumental step to support fresh produce exporters by installing 1,367 power points at its shipment facilities between Mombasa and Naivasha.

This strategic move aims to enhance the handling of refrigerated containers, known as reefer containers, which are essential for transporting perishable goods that require temperature control during shipping.

Reefer containers are critical for maintaining the quality of fresh produce during transit. Equipped with refrigeration units, these containers must be connected to a consistent electrical source at depots, terminals, or onboard vessels to ensure the cargo remains within specified temperature ranges.

This technology is vital for the export of goods such as fruits and vegetables, meat, fish, dairy products, flowers, pharmaceuticals, juice concentrates, and chocolate.

KPA’s managing director, Captain William Ruto, announced the installation of 795 container charging points in Mombasa, 336 in Nairobi, 216 in Lamu, and 20 in Naivasha.

“We have been receiving fresh produce from Tanzania and other parts of the country. We increased plugging points due to increased demand. In handling this fresh produce, shippers of containerised perishable produce are granted priority to land in all our entry gates,” said Captain Ruto.

He emphasized that these charging points are a significant boost for traders who prefer sea transport for shipping avocados, vegetables, flowers, and other fresh produce.

The increased number of charging points is expected to streamline the logistics of exporting fresh produce, reducing delays and ensuring that products reach international markets in optimal condition.

This initiative is part of KPA’s broader strategy to upscale the number of reefer charging points and prioritize fresh produce at scanning points across various port facilities, thereby ensuring quicker truck turnaround times.

Vertical Agro (EPZ) Limited, a prominent fresh produce company, has already experienced the benefits of this development.

CEO Hasit Shah remarked, “The introduction of special refrigerated containers and plugging points at port facilities has turned out to be a game changer. The cost has significantly gone down.”

This sentiment reflects the broader industry perspective that sea transportation is more cost-effective compared to air transport, especially for high-volume exports.

Karen Rono, Maersk Eastern Africa’s head of integrated sales, cold chain, highlighted the role of shipping lines in enhancing the cold chain supply, which has attracted more traders in the region.

“Since the introduction of refrigerated containers, port users from East Africa have taken advantage of Mombasa port, which installed more than 1,300 plugging points catering to the demand,” she noted.

The expansion of reefer infrastructure at the port has not only improved service delivery but also increased the volume of fresh produce exports.

The positive impact of these developments is already evident in Kenya’s horticulture sector.

Earnings from fresh fruits, vegetables, nuts, and cut flowers grew by 15.2 percent between January and April, driven by higher export volumes.

Media engagement facility visit at Vertical Agro EPZ Limited | Image Credits: Kenya Ports Authority

Data from the Central Bank of Kenya shows that horticulture earnings increased to $363 million (Sh46.9 billion) over the four-month period.

The strategic placement of these charging points aligns with KPA’s vision to bolster Kenya’s position as a leading exporter of fresh produce in the region.

By reducing logistical bottlenecks and lowering transportation costs, KPA is enabling exporters to compete more effectively in the global market. This initiative also supports Kenya’s broader economic goals by enhancing the country’s export capabilities and driving growth in the agricultural sector.

As KPA continues to invest in infrastructure improvements, the future looks promising for Kenya’s fresh produce exporters.

The increased reefer capacity not only ensures the quality and safety of perishable goods during transit but also strengthens Kenya’s reputation as a reliable source of high-quality fresh produce.

This development underscores the importance of modernizing port facilities to meet the evolving needs of the export market and sustain economic growth.

This article was adapted with additional insights from Anthony Kitimo on BusinessDailyAfrica.com.