The Port of Mombasa recorded a significant surge in cargo volumes in 2025, outperforming forecasts despite facing persistent congestion expected to last until the end of February. The increased trade highlights a need for capacity expansion at the port.

• Cargo volumes reached a record high of 45.45 million metric tonnes in 2025, a 10.9 percent increase from 2024's 40.99 million tonnes.
• Kenya Ports Authority (KPA) Managing Director William Ruto attributed the growth to increased regional trade, government support, and inter-agency collaboration.
• The port also saw an increase in vessel calls by 4.4 percent and a 5.5 percent growth in container traffic, handling 2.11 million TEUs.
• Transit cargo, crucial for markets like Uganda and DRC, grew by an impressive 19.5 percent.
• Congestion was partly due to geopolitical developments in the region, including elections in Tanzania and Uganda.
• Expansion projects, including the rehabilitation of Berth 19B and plans for Berths 23 and 24, are underway to boost the port's capacity.