The Kenya Ports Authority (KPA) has posted a remarkable financial performance for the 2023/2024 Financial Year, culminating in a record dividend payout of Sh10.6 billion to the National Treasury. This represents a sharp increase from the previous year’s Sh3.341 billion, underscoring the Authority’s strong operational growth and financial resilience.
The stellar performance was highlighted during a performance review session led by Deputy Chief of Staff Mr. Eliud Owalo, who was accompanied by the Performance Unit Principal Administrative Secretary, Mr. Joshua Mwiranga. The review also showcased KPA’s improved pre-tax profit, which climbed from Sh16.642 billion in the previous year to Sh17.284 billion.
Despite its financial success, KPA continues to grapple with operational inefficiencies, largely attributed to a lack of coordination among state agencies and external stakeholders involved in port activities. KPA Chairman Mr. Benjamin Tayari noted that many challenges stem from government agencies whose roles directly impact port efficiency.
“Most of the issues affecting us, especially in operations, stem from other stakeholders and government agencies that we are supposed to collaborate with. If we can establish a seamless operation with these agencies, many of the performance challenges we face will be resolved,” Mr. Tayari stated.
KPA Managing Director Capt. William Ruto emphasized that external inefficiencies, such as cargo handling delays and prolonged truck turnaround times, significantly impact the port’s performance. While trucks are expected to complete their turnaround in three hours, delays often arise due to non-functioning scanners and bureaucratic hurdles within other agencies.
“We have other agencies that are supposed to support us, but they can sometimes derail our operations. We recommend that, moving forward, the evaluation criteria should be adjusted to capture issues that are outside our control,” Capt. Ruto stated.