By John Ndegwa / BMA
Twenty-one employees from the Kenya Ports Authority (KPA) have successfully completed an intensive three-month Gantry Crane Cargo Simulator course at Bandari Maritime Academy (BMA), in a strategic move aimed at strengthening operational efficiency, safety, and productivity at the ports of Mombasa and Lamu.
The specialized training programme utilizes advanced cargo simulation technology to recreate real-life port environments. This enables participants to refine their technical skills in a controlled setting without interfering with live port operations. Through structured and competency-based modules, trainees gained hands-on experience in gantry crane handling, container positioning accuracy, load management, safety compliance, and emergency response procedures.
As global trade volumes continue to rise and vessels become larger and more technologically sophisticated, modern ports increasingly depend on highly skilled operators capable of managing complex equipment with speed, precision, and adherence to international safety standards. Simulator-based training significantly reduces operational risk, prevents equipment damage, and enhances operator confidence before deployment to active terminals.
BMA Chief Executive Officer, Dr. Eric Katana, commended the partnership, noting that the Academy remains committed to delivering industry-responsive training aligned with international maritime best practices. He emphasized that simulation technology is transforming maritime training by bridging the gap between theory and real-world operations.
The programme was overseen by the Senior Deputy Director, Maritime Transport Operations and Training (MTOT), Enock Okemwa, who ensured that the curriculum met both industry standards and KPA’s operational requirements. Supporting the delivery was Port Equipment Trainer Loth Komora, whose technical expertise and hands-on mentorship played a critical role in equipping participants with practical competencies.
KPA Assistant Human Resource Officer – Operations, Miriam Obwong, highlighted the Authority’s continued investment in staff development as a key driver of improved port performance and service delivery.
Upon completion of the course, the participants are expected to return to their respective terminals better prepared to optimize cargo handling operations, minimize downtime, and contribute to smoother, safer, and more efficient port performance.
