Mombasa port security project nears completion

A project to install Integrated Security System (ISS) at the port of Mombasa to protect it from terrorism is nearing completion, port officials have said.

The Sh1.7 billion project, which is jointly funded by the government and the World Bank, will pave way for the port’s long term conformity with the International Maritime Organization (IMO) standards and compliance with the International Ship and Port Facility Security (ISPS) Code.

“The ISS will complement the visible and undercover patrols by all security agencies in the port,” Kenya Ports Authority’s head of security, Mohamed Morowa told reporters.

The ISS infrastructure entails, among other things, the installation of an Access Control System (ACS) that will recognise number plates of vehicles entering the port, banning access to all other unauthorized vehicles.

The ultra-modern security system, which is being installed by Magal Security Systems of Israel, is scheduled for completion in March next year.

Israeli companies are playing a major role in securing the Kenyan port having recently built a Sh700 million control tower to enhance harbor surveillance.

Although similar security system exists for ports in Senegal and South Africa, KPA officials claim Kenya’s project will be the largest and grandest on the continent and will secure the Mombasa port by sea and land.

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