Source: The Splash247
Date: 12th May 2026 

Port modernisation project aims to strengthen regional trade corridors and improve East Africa’s logistics connectivity.

CMA CGM has announced plans to invest approximately US$820 million into the expansion and modernisation of key terminals at the Port of Mombasa, reinforcing the port’s position as one of East Africa’s most strategic maritime gateways.

The investment is expected to significantly increase cargo-handling capacity while improving operational efficiency and regional connectivity. As trade volumes across Africa continue to grow, the project aims to strengthen supply chain performance and support faster movement of goods between global shipping routes and inland African markets.

The Port of Mombasa plays a critical role in serving not only Kenya but also several landlocked economies across East and Central Africa, including Uganda, Rwanda, South Sudan, and the Democratic Republic of Congo. Improved infrastructure and logistics capabilities are expected to enhance the efficiency of regional trade corridors linking these markets.

The project also reflects a broader trend of infrastructure modernisation across African ports through public-private partnerships. Kenya has increasingly focused on upgrading strategic transport infrastructure to improve competitiveness, attract investment, and support long-term economic growth.

Beyond port expansion, the investment aligns with wider efforts to integrate logistics services and support more sustainable transport networks across Africa. The development forms part of a broader regional strategy focused on improving maritime connectivity, inland logistics integration, and long-term trade resilience.

The investment is expected to generate positive long-term impacts across regional and international supply chains. Shippers may benefit from improved port efficiency, higher capacity, and reduced congestion. Importers could experience smoother cargo flows and shorter transit times into East and Central Africa. Exporters may gain stronger access to international shipping networks and improved trade connectivity.

What This Means for Supply Chains

• Africa’s Logistics Infrastructure Continues to Evolve: Investments in ports and inland connectivity are accelerating across the continent
• Regional Trade Corridors Strengthen: Improved gateway infrastructure enhances access for landlocked economies
• Supply Chain Efficiency Gains Importance: Faster cargo handling and integrated logistics networks support growing trade demand
• Port Modernisation Drives Competitiveness: Strategic maritime hubs are increasingly competing for regional transshipment and trade flows

This reinforces the importance of infrastructure investment, multimodal connectivity, and strategic regional logistics planning as Africa’s role in global trade continues to expand.