MESSAGE FROM THE MANAGING DIRECTOR

As 2010 draws to a close, let us thank the Almighty God for having kept us well and enabled us to meet our targets amidst stiff challenges.  With the world economy sluggishly recovering from a two year downturn, many ports have not fully recovered from negative growth. It is therefore a blessing that the Port of Mombasa experienced modest growth and we are upbeat that we shall continue to perform even better.

By the third quarter of this year, we had handled 14million tons compared to 13.7million tons handled in the same period last year, a growth rate of 2.1 percent. Container traffic however recorded an impressive growth rate of 11.5%, it rose from 460, 000 to 513,000 TEUs in 2010.

During the year, we consulted widely as a team and maintained a productive working relationship that allowed us to conclude amicably the negotiations with the Dock Workers Union. Thank you for your patience. We   now can concentrate fully on operation challenges ahead.

As we reflect on the achievements, we should remain focused on meeting the targets in our 2010/2011 Performance Contract with the government.  This includes attaining or surpassing ship turnaround time of 3 days, and return on investment of 14.7%

I also wish to observe that in our continued effort to improve operational efficiency, we have started receiving some of the equipment that we had ordered.  Last month we took delivery of 10 Rubber Tyred Gantry cranes (RTGs) to enhance capacity and yard operations. We expect the remaining consignment in phases between now and August 2011. This will comprise; four reach stackers, three Ship-to-shore Gantry Cranes (STS), ten terminal tractors, two mooring and one pilot boats.

In addition, we have awarded the tender to extend the quay at the container Terminal by 160 metres to accommodate three standard size container ships. Work to convert berth Nos 11- 14 to a container handling facility is also in progress. Furthermore arrangements to commence construction of the second container terminal and dredge the channel by early next year have been finalized.

The programs that have been rolled out   are geared towards making the port of Mombasa more competitive in line with our newly unveiled vision: “World Class Sea Ports of Choice”. It is also in the same spirit that we recently tasked some of our colleagues to visit other world ports and borrow a leaf on some of the best operational and managerial practices. We believe that their experience will be relevant towards the realization of our mission which is “To facilitate and promote global maritime trade through the provision of competitive port services”.

Finally, as we approach a festive season, I am pleased to convey my warm greetings and best wishes. I urge you to use the occasion to enjoy and share with the less fortunate, your families and friends within reasonable bounds.

Merry Christmas and a Happy New year, 2011.

Gichiri Ndua

MANAGING DIRECTOR