The Kenya Ports Authority welcomed its new Managing Director Captain William Ruto on Monday as he officially assumed leadership of the organization at its Mombasa headquarters. The appointment was marked by a ceremonial welcome from staff representing all operational zones, spanning facilities from Dockyard to the Second Container Terminal.
Captain Ruto was received by KPA Board Chairman Hon. Benjamin Tayari and the outgoing acting Managing Director Ambassador John Mwangemi, who facilitated a formal handing over meeting at the Chairman's office before Ruto addressed the assembled workforce.
In his inaugural remarks to staff, the new Managing Director emphasized the strategic significance of the Port of Mombasa beyond national boundaries. "One of the most important things to note is that this Port is not only for Kenya but it's the gateway to East and Central Africa," Captain Ruto stated. "We are therefore not only going to look at what is going on within our country, but we must also tap on what is happening within emerging transit markets and also focus on growing more business volumes for this institution."
Captain Ruto acknowledged the workforce as a critical stakeholder group, pledging to prioritize operational efficiency across all port facilities while leveraging employee contributions. He referenced the ambitious government agenda tied to ongoing mega projects, specifically highlighting the Special Economic Zone development at Dongo Kundu as a key priority requiring coordinated implementation alongside General Managers across all divisions.
With more than two decades of maritime industry experience, including extensive sea time career service, the new Managing Director expressed confidence in his ability to elevate port performance. "Mr Chairman I want to assure you and the Board that I will never let you down. I am an old hand in this field having worked here for over 20 years with my previous sea time career. I am very confident with your support and that of the Board we will steer this Port to be among the best ports globally," he told the assembled gathering.
Captain Ruto acknowledged the foundational work of his predecessor, noting that Ambassador Mwangemi had provided stabilizing leadership during a two-year tenure as acting Managing Director. The Board Chairman Hon. Benjamin Tayari extended congratulations to the new appointee, confirming that the selection process had been conducted through rigorous competitive procedures, and voiced anticipation for collaborative engagement moving forward.