Kenya’s Lamu Port is experiencing an increase in activity following the arrival of a second vehicle carrier this week, as the Middle East conflict disrupts global shipping routes.
- •The vessel, MV Grande Florida, operated by Italy-based Grimaldi Group, docked at Lamu carrying approximately 3,800 vehicles and assorted spare parts from Yokohama.
- •The shipment had initially been destined for Jebeli Ali Port but was diverted due to ongoing regional disruptions affecting shipping routes.
- •According to the Kenya Ports Authority (KPA), the port is preparing for increased vessel calls in the coming weeks, as shipping lines explore diversion options and new routing strategies.
"In terms of performance, the Port posted an impressive total cargo throughput of 799,161 metric tons last year compared to 74,380 metric tons which was recorded in 2024 mainly driven by containerized cargo," the Kenya Ports Authority said.
According to KPA Managing Director Capt. William Ruto, the Port expects another car carrier to discharge 5,000 motor vehicle units next week. Cumulatively, Lamu has received 74 vessels since January.
The latest delivery brings the cumulative number of vehicles received at the port to over 4,200, with units currently being held in port storage facilities. The development highlights Lamu’s emerging role as an alternative logistics node in response to shifting global maritime dynamics.
With several shipping lines reportedly exploring regular routes, Lamu is beginning to move from a greenfield infrastructure project toward an operational commercial port.
Although it remains smaller and less established than ports like Mombasa, its ability to attract diverted cargo and new vessel traffic points to a gradually growing presence in Eastern African trade networks.
