A new grain handling and storage port was launched on Saturday in Embakasi, Nairobi, to allow millers and manufacturers to discharge, store, and transport grain from ships to the inland Nairobi terminal.
The Embakasi Grain Terminal, built by Grain Bulk Handlers Ltd (GBHL), will ensure greater efficiency while reducing logistics costs.
The advanced infrastructure, which President William Ruto commissioned, is essential to modernizing the movement and storage of grains from the coast to inland terminals using standard gauge rail.
Speaking at the facility's launch, President Ruto expressed optimism that the terminal will play a crucial role in helping the country address food security.
He said the terminal will immensely benefit the region's customers and create employment opportunities.
“We are thrilled to see the completion of this incredible project as it has also created more jobs for our people. We are proud to have this terminal in our country, and look forward to seeing the positive impact it will have on our community and beyond,” he said.
He added that the SGR terminal will also contribute significantly to commercialising the standard gauge railway, a critical component of Kenya’s national transportation infrastructure.
Mohamed Jaffer, Chairman of GBHL, said even though the Covid-19 pandemic presented numerous difficulties that caused the project to be delayed, they were able to finish it on time thanks to the stakeholders’ dedication and unwavering support.
“The journey to the successful completion of this project was not without its challenges, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic. The pandemic presented unprecedented challenges that threatened to delay the project. Still, with stakeholders' support and commitment, GBHL overcame them and completed the project on schedule.
“The terminal will provide immense benefits to our customers and the region, and also create new employment opportunities, providing a boost to the local economy and creating a ripple effect across the supply chain,” he added.
Embakasi terminal’s primary function is to receive through the Standard Gauge Railway (SGR), store and discharge grains as per demand.
He continued by saying that it will provide a seamless, point-to-point logistics solution with several advantages, such as a customs clearing facility on-site, decreased charges and theft, lower inventory costs, and shorter transit times.
He also added that the project will increase trade flows, and clients will enjoy savings by collecting grain in bulk with the option for bagged.
