The Port of Mombasa got a major boost after one of the container vessel operated by leading global shipping line Messina made its maiden call at the port.

The ship which is the 3rd full container vessel for Messina line with a carrying capacity of 4395 Twenty Foot Equivalent Units (TEUs) and 260 meters long docked at the port on Tuesday evening from Djibouti.

Speaking during the welcoming ceremony and issuance of certificate of first call, Kenya Ports Authority (KPA) Managing Director William Ruto noted that the port has managed to win the confidence and trust of major shipping lines due it's efficiency.

"When you have efficiency everybody tends to follow you" argued Ruto.

Adding "We want to appreciate Messina for converting the port of Mombasa to a transshipment hub. 35% of it's cargo is heading To Daresalaam but they will be first passing through Mombasa. This is good for our business".

The MD further added that the port will strive to improve it's services in order to attract more shipping lines and business.

'As the port we want to commit ourselves in terms of operational efficiency and reduction of ship waiting time. When you reduce the ship waiting time then you have also reduced the cost of business which most shipping line are keen on" he asserted.

On his part the ship captain Tommaso Elmetto assured the management of the port that the good relation between the shipping line and the port will continue.

"We have had a very good co-operation and relationship with the port of Mombasa for a very long time and I believe this will continue and many ships from Messina will be coming here" said Elmetto.