The Kenya Ports Authority recorded a major achievement at the Port of Lamu after receiving the largest vessel ever to dock in East and Central Africa.
The MV Baltimore Express, a 369-metre container ship operated by Hapag-Lloyd, arrived from Salalah Port in Oman. The vessel spans nearly three football pitches and berthed smoothly at a 400-metre quay, confirming the port’s ultra-large ship capacity.
The call follows earlier deployments of sister vessels, reinforcing Lamu’s rising profile as a transshipment hub.
During its call, the vessel conducted restow operations of dangerous cargo, repositioning goods in compliance with International Maritime Organization regulations. All safety and compliance standards were strictly observed.
The operation involved careful cargo repositioning to maintain vessel stability and adhere to international safety protocols during port stay.
KPA Highlights Growing Global Standing
General Manager Captain Abdulaziz Mzee said the call reinforces Lamu’s global standing, comparing it to Singapore, Rotterdam and Hamburg.
“This lifts Lamu’s profile on the global maritime map,” he said. He noted that the port’s performance places it alongside some of the world’s most advanced maritime terminals.
Lamu’s advantage is its 17.5-metre deep harbor, allowing Panamax and post-Panamax vessels to enter with minimal dredging.
This gives it an edge over regional ports that rely on continuous dredging. This natural depth reduces operational costs and enhances competitiveness across East African shipping routes.
Rising Vessel Traffic and Infrastructure Expansion
Lamu has handled over 120 vessels this year with more expected as trade grows. KPA is investing in cranes terminal tractors and new equipment due within the year.
These investments are aimed at supporting increasing vessel traffic and improving turnaround times as Lamu strengthens its role in regional trade corridors.
Mzee confirmed that 90 of 5,000 vehicles discharged in March have been evacuated indicating improved clearance efficiency.
As global shipping shifts toward larger vessels Lamu positions itself as a future-ready gateway built to lead regional maritime trade.
