The Kenya Ports Authority (KPA) has acquired an additional four Rubber Tyred Gantry Cranes (RTGs) worth USD 8.5 million in the ongoing equipment upgrading and modernization programme.
The four cranes built on advanced technology have a Safe Working Load capacity of 45 tons, wheel span of 24 Meters, and engine drive capacity that consumes less fuel. They are manufactured by the Shanghai Zhenua Heavy Industries `company ZPMC).
The new equipements were discharged at the second container terminal and are awaiting commissioning.
"The arrival of the new cranes will boost efficiency on cargo dwell time and subsequently improve vessel turnaround." reads a statement from KPA
Last year, KPA acquired four modern Ship to Shore Gantry cranes mounted with spreaders that can handle two containers per move, making the port competitive in the region.
KPA Managing Director Captain William Ruto has attributed impressive port performance to the expansion of key berths and the acquisition of state-of-the-art equipment.
The Port of Mombasa is projected to handle 1.8 million TEUs by the end of the year 2024.
