Kenya announces arrival of sophisticated vessel from Singapore
Kenya announces arrival of sophisticated vessel from Singapore
The Kenya Ports Authority (KPA) has confirmed the arrival of a pure liquefied natural gas (LNG)-powered vessel, Höegh Australis, at Port of Mombasa, the first of its kind to dock at the country’s main port.
According to KPA, the vessel arrived at the Port of Mombasa on December 26, 2025 after an 11-day voyage from Singapore.
The vessel was piloted into port by Kenya Ports Authority pilot Captain Suleiman Bakari, who represented KPA Managing Director Capt. William Ruto.
During the call, a traditional first-call plaque and certificate were issued to the vessel’s master, Captain Edgar Paul P. Buhia, to commemorate the ship’s inaugural visit to the port.
Captain Bakari said the ship operates on 98 percent liquefied natural gas, with the remaining 2 percent traditional bunker fuel used during engine start-up and specific operational requirements.
“This is a significant step toward cleaner shipping,” Bakari said, noting that LNG propulsion sharply reduces emissions compared with conventional marine fuels.
The 16-deck vessel has a cargo capacity of about 9,000 units, aligning with new-generation pure car and truck carriers designed to move large volumes efficiently while meeting tighter environmental standards.
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The ship’s master, Captain Buhia, said access to the port was good and described the vessel’s experience at Mombasa as positive.
LNG-powered ships are increasingly deployed as the global maritime industry responds to stricter environmental rules under the International Maritime Organization.
Compared with heavy fuel oil, LNG significantly reduces sulfur oxide and particulate emissions and lowers nitrogen oxides, while also cutting carbon dioxide output.
Many LNG vessels are built to be ammonia-ready, allowing future conversion to zero-carbon fuels as technology and supply chains mature.
While ammonia-powered ships are beginning to enter service, infrastructure and safety standards remain a challenge.
LNG is widely viewed as a transition fuel as the industry works toward full decarbonization, though challenges remain, including fuel availability, infrastructure development and methane emissions.
The arrival of Höegh Australis confirms Mombasa Port’s growing capacity to accommodate next-generation, lower-emission vessels as global shipping accelerates its shift toward sustainability.
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