Ethiopia receives first cargo from Lamu port

LAMU, Kenya - For the first time since the inauguration of Lamu Port, Ethiopia has received cargo from the ambitious project, a signal of deep cooperation with Kenya and intent to support the growth of the Lamu Port South Sudan Ethiopia Transport (LAPSSET) initiative.

According to the Standard, MV Abbey II vessel docked in Lamu Port with 60,000 tonnes of fertilizer, indicating the implementation of the LAPSSET corridor project, which was first implemented during the reign of Mwai Kibaki, the third president of Kenya.

Kenya Ports Authority (KPA) Managing Director William Ruto yesterday described the arrival of the vessel at Lamu port as a significant stride for Kenya and Ethiopia to cement business partnerships.

The MD said the vessel which docked in Lamu, carried the largest consignment in the history of Kenya's freight services, adding that this is a commitment to strengthen Ethiopia's ties with Kenya, which have existed since 1963.

“Mv Abbey 11 which is here on a maiden call is carrying 60,000 metric tonnes of fertiliser destined for Ethiopia. This is the largest consignment of bulk fertilizer to have docked in Kenya and specifically the port of Lamu,” he said.

The KPA boss was confident that the arrival of the ship was proof of Kenya’s dedication to position Lamu as a logistic hub in the region.

“This moment marks not only a successful trade transaction but also a significant step towards strengthening regional integration and fostering economic cooperation between the two nations,” said Ruto.

Girma Amante, Ethiopia's Agriculture Minister, said the ministry identified Lamu port for the export and import of goods to support their country’s growing economy.

Dr Amante commended Kenya for ensuring Lamu port was operational as it was going to make them realize their dream of getting a port through which they would export and import goods without any problem.

“We are thankful for this call to the port of Lamu and believe this is the first of many vessels carrying Ethiopia-bound cargo which we shall handle,” Ruto said.

GAROWE ONLINE