MOMBASA, Kenya—The Kenya Ports Authority (KPA) has commissioned a KSh1 billion digital Vessel Traffic Management Information System (VTMIS) at the Port of Mombasa, a move aimed at improving maritime safety, streamlining vessel movement and supporting growing cargo traffic at Kenya’s largest seaport.
The investment also includes the acquisition of two modern tugboats and a helicopter to strengthen marine operations and emergency response, as KPA steps up efforts to modernize port infrastructure through technology.
Speaking during the launch on Wednesday, KPA Managing Director Capt. William K. Ruto said the new system will enhance monitoring of vessel traffic while automating key port operations that have traditionally relied on manual processes.
He said the technology will provide shipping lines, clearing agents and other stakeholders with real-time visibility of vessels calling at the Port of Mombasa, improving coordination and operational efficiency.
“The increasing number of vessel calls requires modern systems that can support safe and efficient navigation while maintaining the high standards expected of a world-class port,” said Capt. Ruto.
The VTMIS integrates radar surveillance, Automatic Identification System (AIS) vessel tracking, marine communications, meteorological monitoring, oil spill detection and digital port management into a single platform that allows round-the-clock monitoring of vessel movements.
The system has been installed at the Port Vessel Traffic Services Control Tower, Ras Serani Signal Station and the Shimanzi Oil Terminal Radar Site, creating an integrated command platform for managing vessel traffic within the port and its approaches.
Beyond technology, KPA has also invested in building technical capacity, with more than 30 officers undergoing specialized training in vessel traffic services, radar operations, pilotage support, port management information systems and internationally accredited International Association of Marine Aids to Navigation and Lighthouse Authorities (IALA) certification programmes.
Industry players welcomed the project, saying it is expected to improve the movement of ships into and out of the Port of Mombasa while strengthening Kenya’s competitiveness as a regional maritime and logistics hub.
[KPA Managing Director Capt. William Ruto.He said the new system will enhance monitoring of vessel traffic while automating key port operations that have traditionally relied on manual processes. Photo/Ahmed Omar/July 9, 2026].
Kenya Ships Agents Association Chief Executive Officer Elijah Mbaru said the digital system will improve coordination of vessel movements, reduce congestion at anchorage, shorten ship turnaround times and lower fuel consumption through more efficient scheduling of arrivals.
He added that the technology will also strengthen emergency response during maritime incidents and enhance navigational safety within Kenya’s territorial waters.
The commissioning of the VTMIS forms part of KPA’s broader modernization strategy as the authority seeks to digitize port operations, improve logistics coordination and support the continued growth of regional and international trade through the Port of Mombasa.
