The Port of Lamu in Kenya has achieved a significant milestone with the arrival of MV Hamouna, a 366-metre container vessel carrying 14,500 twenty-foot equivalent units (TEUs). The vessel, which navigated 14 nautical miles through the Eastern Channel, berthed safely at the port, underscoring its deep-water capability. This development solidifies Lamu's position as a growing transshipment and regional trade hub along the LAPSSET Corridor.
MV Hamouna's cargo includes about 5,200 TEUs scheduled for discharge at Lamu, with the remaining containers to be transshipped to other destinations via smaller feeder vessels. Kenya Ports Authority (KPA) Managing Director Capt. William Ruto highlighted the significance of this arrival, noting that Lamu Port has received the largest vessel to discharge over 5,000 TEUs at once. He emphasized that even Mombasa Port has not surpassed this figure, making Lamu Port a key player in the maritime industry.
Capt. Ruto expressed optimism about the port's future prospects, citing the recent groundbreaking of the Dangote East Africa Refinery, which is expected to boost port operations and create more opportunities for maritime and logistics services. The port's modern berthing infrastructure and deep-water harbour, with berths having a depth of about 17.5 metres, support its capacity to handle large vessels like MV Hamouna.
MV Hamouna is among the largest vessels to call at Lamu this year, following in the footsteps of MV Baltimore Express, a 369-metre container vessel operated by Hapag-Lloyd, which arrived earlier this year. In August 2025, another Hapag-Lloyd vessel, MV Nagoya Express, measuring 335 metres, set a vessel-size record at the port. These developments demonstrate Lamu's growing importance as a strategic maritime hub.
During the maiden-call ceremony, Capt. Ruto presented a certificate of first call and a plaque to the vessel's master, Capt. Mir Firoozi, in keeping with maritime tradition. This ceremony marked a significant moment in the port's history, highlighting its ability to accommodate large vessels and facilitate international trade.
The arrival of MV Hamouna and other large vessels has significant implications for the regional economy, with Lamu Port poised to play a critical role in facilitating trade and economic growth. As a transshipment hub, the port is well-positioned to connect East Africa to global markets, driving economic development and growth in the region.
With its modern infrastructure and strategic location, Lamu Port is set to continue attracting large vessels and increasing its cargo handling capacity. As the port continues to grow, it is likely to have a positive impact on the local economy, creating jobs and stimulating economic activity in the region. The port's future prospects appear bright, with ongoing developments and investments expected to further enhance its capabilities.
Key points
- Lamu Port receives MV Hamouna, a 366-metre container vessel with 14,500 TEUs.
- The port's deep-water capability and modern berthing infrastructure support its growing role as a transshipment hub.
- The arrival of large vessels like MV Hamouna is expected to boost port operations and drive economic growth in the region.
