TradeMark Africa (TMA), the government and the private sector have kicked off a plan that will see the country shift to exporting half of its horticulture produce by sea rather than air in the next 10 years. The plan is aimed at driving the country’s shift to green and sustainable transportation of Kenyan horticultural exports, according to TMA.

Successful implementation of the plans will reduce both the carbon footprint and the cost of exports. Additionally, the shift from air to sea freight will allay growing concerns about air freight’s large carbon footprint.

“Sea freight is viable and a win-win option for all as Kenya gears to increase its volume of exports by 50 per cent by year 2030. It is a more sustainable alternative, less expensive and has an enormous carrying capacity,” said TradeMark Africa Deputy CEO, Allen Sophia Asiimwe in Mombasa on Thursday during a kick-off meeting at the Port of Mombasa.

Private sector

The plan is supported by Netherlands, Denmark and the European Union. Speaking at the same event, Ambassador of Netherlands to Kenya, Maarten Brouwer, called for the inclusion of the private sector in the plan, saying it was crucial.

“The transition from air freight to sea freight will have to go hand in hand with the private sector. It is important to create export volumes, optimize systems and foster innovations in port development,” he said.

The European Union (EU) Ambassador Henriette Geiger observed that the sector was ripe for an urgent and radical transition from air to sea freight as a step in the right direction in the clamour for climate change action.