Global logistics firms shortlisted for second port terminal job

Twelve companies have been shortlisted to be the concessionaires of the first phase of the Mombasa port second container terminal.

They include major logistics firms Dubai Port (DP World), China Merchant Holdings and French firm Bollore formerly Transami, that is in a consortium with Toyota Tsusho Corporation.

The Kenya Ports Authority (KPA) last December invited logistics firms to apply for operating phase one of the terminal which has two berths. Some 19 companies applied for the job.

The concession is for 25 years beginning 2016 when the construction of the terminal is scheduled to be complete. It will be the first terminal to be managed by a private company in a move aimed at improving services.

Other applicants for the position are Hutchison Ports Investment S.A.R.L. in a consortium with Mitsui & Company, Grup Maritim TCB with Mitsubishi Corporation and Freight Fowarders, COSCO Pacific, Carrix and Interperl Investments, International Container Terminal Services Inc, APM Terminals BV, CMA/CGM SA, Terminal Investment Ltd Sa and PSA International Pte with Marubeni Corporation and Multiple Hauliers E.A.

“Kenya Ports Authority issued Tender No KPA/007/2014–15/CS on December 29, 2014 for qualification for procurement of concessionaire for phase 1 of the second container terminal at the port of Mombasa, Kenya… 12 firms have been shortlisted and will be issued with request for proposals,” said Gichiri Ndua, KPA managing director in the Kenya Gazette.

The second terminal became necessary as the current terminal is overwhelmed with cargo waiting for clearance.

Mombasa port is amongst Africa’s busiest with over one million twenty-foot equivalent units being cleared annually.

The port is busy because it serves the wider eastern African region including the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo, Uganda, Rwanda and Burundi.