The Netherlands has expressed support for Kenya Ports Authority’s ongoing efforts to improve efficiency and modernise infrastructure at the Port of Mombasa, following high-level talks held at the facility.

In a statement shared on X on Monday, January 27, 2026, KPS said the engagement took place during a courtesy visit by the Netherlands’ Deputy Ambassador to Kenya, Jaco Beerends, who met KPA Managing Director Captain William Ruto to discuss port operations, trade facilitation and regional connectivity.

The visit brought together officials from Kenya and development partners at one of the country’s most strategic economic gateways.

During the visit, the Netherlands delegation acknowledged progress made at the port and the importance of continued investment in infrastructure to support trade within Kenya and the wider region.

“The Netherlands Deputy Ambassador to Kenya, Jaco Beerends, has lauded Kenya Ports Authority for advancing efficiency and infrastructure development at the Port of Mombasa,” the statement reads.

The discussions focused on strengthening existing partnerships while exploring new areas of cooperation to improve port performance and boost regional trade. The Port of Mombasa serves not only Kenya but also several landlocked countries in the region, making efficiency and reliability critical for millions who depend on the corridor for goods and services.

Beerends was accompanied by Trademark Africa Country Director Lilian Mwai, with the delegation reaffirming the Netherlands’ commitment to supporting Kenya’s logistics and trade agenda, including investments beyond the port itself.

“Beerends, who was accompanied by the trademark Africa country director, Lilian Mwai, reaffirmed his government’s commitment to supporting Kenya’s logistics and trade facilitation agenda, underscoring the benefits of sustained investment in both the port and the wider hinterland transport network,” KPA’s statement reads.

On his part, KPA Managing Director Captain William Ruto highlighted the long-standing cooperation among Kenya, the Netherlands, and development partners, noting that several joint projects are already delivering results across the transport and maritime sectors.

“In his remarks, the Managing Director, William Ruto, praised the government of the Netherlands and trademark Africa for their steadfast support in several transformative projects at the Port of Mombasa,” the statement reads.

Captain Ruto pointed to partnerships at inland facilities such as the Naivasha Inland Container Depot, improvements in navigation safety at Lake Victoria, the Busia One-Stop Border Post, as well as emerging areas like e-mobility and the blue economy, all of which contribute to regional growth.

A major project currently underway at the port is the installation of the Smart Gates System, which is expected to streamline cargo clearance, cut dwelling times and increase the volume of cargo handled, easing pressure on the port and improving turnaround times for traders.

Trademark Africa said it remains committed to working with Kenya to improve infrastructure and trade across the region.

“Trademark Africa Country Director Lilian Mwai reiterated her organisation’s commitment to improving infrastructure and fostering trade across the region,” part of the KPA statement on X reads.