The port of Lamu has received Ethiopia’s first maiden ship, MV Abbey, which imported 60,000 metric tonnes of fertilizer for Southern Ethiopia.

The docking signals the East African region’s openness towards using the Lamu Port-South Sudan-Ethiopia-Transport (LAPSSET) corridor.

Speaking during the reception, Kenya Ports Authority Managing Director (MD), Captain William Ruto, hailed the reception as a milestone event that proves the viability of the Lamu Port and the adjacent LAPSSET corridor.

Captain Ruto stated that the arrival is symbolic, regionally, as it marks the significant strides the Kenyan government has made towards cementing a fruitful business partnership with Ethiopia.

“This moment marks not only a successful trade transaction, but also a significant step towards strengthening regional integration and fostering economic cooperation between our nations.”

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LAPSSET Director General Simon Ikua stated that the reception of MV Abby signals the government’s commitment to regional integration, borne of trade, by developing a second commercial port (Lamu Port) to tap into the enormous economic potential posed not only by the northern corridor but also by Southern Ethiopia.

In addition, he reiterated the National government’s commitment to improving areas within the LAPSSET corridor and expanding the road network to cover the northern corridor extensively.


On his part, Ethiopia’s Minister of Agriculture, Girma Amante, stated that the Lamu Port-South Sudan-Ethiopia Transit Corridor, is a transformative project critical for Africa’s ambition to establish a continental free trade area, as it supports the free movement of goods, services and people across the borders.

“Ethiopia is one of the fastest-growing economies in Africa, given the size of its population, as the second most populous country in Africa. Therefore, it is a necessity to diversify our access to the seaports.”

On the other hand, Ethiopia’s Transport and Logistics Minister, Dange Boru, noted that expanding the Lapsset corridor will facilitate the movement of goods, reduce transportation, and pose socioeconomic advantages for Kenya and Ethiopia.

Lamu County Governor Issa Timamy reiterated the County’s support for realizing the LAPSSET dream, which he stated would significantly improve the fortunes of those living in Lamu.

He stated that residents already have high expectations for the advantages presented by the success of the first commercial shipment made through the Lamu Port, and interest among commercial investors is increasing.