The Kilima service is a standalone, weekly service that directly connects China to Kenya and Tanzania. The first vessel called at the port of Mombasa on 24/8.

A CMA CGM container ship. Photo: CMA CGM

A CMA CGM container ship. Photo: CMA CGM

Via transshipment in Singapore, the Kilima service expands connectivity to major ports across Asia. Cargo from India's east coast will connect through Colombo, Sri Lanka, which also serves as a transshipment point to the Maldives via the Male Shuttle service. The first Male Shuttle departed on 25/8.

From Mombasa, the Karibu service will connect to Zanzibar, Tanga, Longoni, and Tamatave. The port of Lamu will serve as a transshipment hub for the Noura and Karibu services to reach Port Victoria, Mogadishu, Nacala, and Comoros.

The network also provides inland connections to several countries in the region: Uganda, South Sudan, Rwanda, Zambia, Malawi, and the Democratic Republic of Congo. This strengthens supply chains and expands trade opportunities between Asia and Africa.

The Dan (Seatrade Maritime News)