Transporters hit as port's empty containers backlog crisis worsens

Cargo volumes at the Mombasa port have surged far beyond projections, rising to 41.1 million tonnes in 2024, up from 36 million tonnes the previous year. [File, Standard]

Mombasa port users are bracing for higher operational costs as severe delays in the handling of empty containers continue to paralyse logistical operations.

What began as isolated blockages at a few Empty Container Depots (ECDs) has now escalated into a full-blown logistical crisis, prompting Kenyan transporters to invoke contractual rights that have long been overlooked by shipping lines and clearing agents.