Kenya Ports Authority has commissioned KMB 9, the first mooring boat constructed within Kenya, in a move designed to reinforce marine operational capacity at the Port of Mombasa. The vessel completed its maiden voyage to the port under a traditional water canon salute fired by two tugs.
Vessel Specifications
The newly delivered boat measures 14.5 meters in length and features a twin screw hull design suited for precise maneuvering during mooring operations. Propulsion comes from twin Caterpillar engines of the CAT C9.3 ACERT series, each delivering 310 kW at 2,100 rpm. The configuration enables the vessel to reach a maximum speed of 10.5 knots while maintaining the stability required to operate in rough sea conditions during standard marine duties.
Fleet Expansion Strategy
The addition of KMB 9 brings KPA's mooring boat fleet to four units. The authority's broader marine contingent currently includes six tugboats, four pilot boats, and two security patrol boats. KPA Managing Director Captain William Ruto stated that the acquisition aligns with the authority's strategic plan to develop port infrastructure through capacity expansion programs and equipment modernization designed to match growing trade demand through Mombasa.
The commissioning marks a milestone in KPA's efforts to build indigenous maritime capability while strengthening the operational readiness of East Africa's largest port gateway.