Mombasa Port is the largest and busiest port in East Africa, playing a vital role in connecting the region to global trade. It is the gateway for the land linked countries of Uganda, Rwanda, Burundi, and South Sudan, along with large parts of Eastern DRC, Tanzania, and Somalia. However, as climate change accelerates, the port is increasingly exposed to various climate risks, from flooding to coastal erosion, and from extreme heat to rising sea levels. These risks threaten not only the port’s infrastructure but also the livelihoods of the communities dependent on it. The Kenya Ports Authority (KPA) is taking proactive steps to address these threats through various initiatives under its Green Port Policy, designed to embed environmental sustainability and climate resilience across all port operations. However, to better understand the port’s climate risks, hazards, impacts and adaptation options to inform long-term planning, the African Group of Negotiators Experts Support (AGNES), in collaboration with International Coalition on Sustainable Infrastructure (ICSI) and the High-Level Climate Champions Team (CCT) piloted the Resilience4Ports “Climate Risk Assessment Guidance for Port Decision-Makers” which will be launched at COP30 by conducting a Climate Risk Screening at the Port of Mombasa.
The Climate Risk Screening Process
Climate risk screening employed a multi-step approach, combining climate data analysis and modelling, stakeholder engagement, and field validation. High-resolution climate projections from Jupiter Intelligence were employed to forecast future changes in temperature, rainfall, sea-level rise, and the frequency of extreme events such as floods and heatwaves. These projections helped identify the key hazards facing Mombasa Port. The field validation exercise, conducted with input from stakeholders including KPA, Kenya Maritime Authority (KMA), and the Kenya Marine and Fisheries Research Institute (KMFRI), provided insights into the real-world impact of these hazards, integrating scientific data with local knowledge.
Key Findings: Climate Hazards and Risks
The screening found that Mombasa Port is highly vulnerable to both acute and chronic climate risks. Flooding, primarily caused by heavy rainfall, is a recurring hazard, having disrupted port operations between 2020 and 2023. Similarly, strong winds and storm surges frequently interfere with vessel navigation and cargo operations. Projections indicate that rainfall is likely to increase, particularly under high-emission scenarios, amplifying the risk of flooding at the port.
Chronic climate risks such as sea-level rise, coastal erosion, and extreme heat also pose significant long-term threats. Sea-level rise is gradually increasing, threatening low-lying areas of the port, while coastal erosion is already destabilizing key infrastructure. Marine heatwaves and rising marine temperatures further stress the marine ecosystems vital to port activities, with increasing risks of ocean acidification affecting port infrastructure over time.
Impacts on Mombasa Port
The climate risks outlined above have significant direct and indirect impacts on Mombasa Port’s infrastructure, operations, and surrounding communities. Flooding disrupts cargo handling, delays vessel turnaround times, and damages critical infrastructure like storage yards and access roads. These disruptions increase maintenance costs, reduce port efficiency, and result in financial losses. Additionally, coastal erosion exacerbates flooding, leading to physical damage to key infrastructure, further destabilizing the port’s operations.
The port workers, especially those operating in exposed areas like berths, are at increased risk of health issues such as respiratory illnesses due to extreme heat and air pollution. Casual workers, including vendors, are particularly vulnerable, experiencing frequent livelihood disruptions due to operational delays and flooding, which contribute to job insecurity and unpredictable income streams. These vulnerabilities disproportionately affect those reliant on the port for their livelihoods.
Climate Adaptation Measures
To address these growing risks, the Kenya Ports Authority (KPA) has already begun implementing key adaptation measures under its Green Port Policy. For example, mangrove restoration and eco-terracing help reduce the impacts of coastal erosion and flooding by stabilizing shorelines. Additionally, tree planting and landscaping are being used to mitigate the effects of extreme heat by providing shaded areas and promoting microclimates within the port.
However, the screening has highlighted the need for further action, especially in reinforcing port infrastructure against future risks. This includes improving drainage systems, elevating critical infrastructure, and constructing protective flood barriers. The findings suggest that Mombasa Port needs to invest in long-term resilience strategies to ensure it can continue to function effectively and sustainably in the face of escalating climate risks.
Moving Forward: Recommendations for Adaptation
Climate Risk Screening at Mombasa Port underscores the urgent need for continued investment in climate resilience. Recommendations include expanding the scope of climate risk assessments to include hinterland transport routes and storage facilities, ensuring resilience across the entire supply chain. Additionally, a regional climate risk assessment for all Kenyan seaports, including Lamu, is recommended to foster coordinated adaptation planning and data sharing. The port’s ongoing adaptation efforts are commendable, but a more comprehensive strategy is required to safeguard its long-term viability. By proactively addressing climate risks, Mombasa Port can ensure its continued importance as a regional economic hub, supporting the livelihoods of millions and maintaining its critical role in global trade.