Port of Lamu

Lamu’s new commercial port provides a second major coastal gateway alongside Mombasa. Built as the maritime component of the LAPSSET transport corridor, it combines cargo handling for inland markets with transfers between shipping services in the Indian Ocean region.

The initial development comprises three operational berths and adjoining cargo yards. Ship-to-shore cranes support container handling, while the port has also handled bulk cargo and vehicles. Its working waterfront is separate from the small jetties associated with the historic town and island traffic.

Transhipment has included cargo destined for neighbouring coastal states and Indian Ocean islands. This gives Lamu a regional shipping role as well as a place in plans for inland transport connections. The existing terminal is the first stage of a much larger development programme, whose proposed facilities should be distinguished from the operating port.