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Mombasa port security system to be ready by March 2013

The security system is jointly funded by the World Bank and the Kenyan government.

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Mombasa port
Cargo handling at the port of Mombasa. PHOTO | FILE

The Sh1.7 billion project to install Integrated Security System (ISS) at the Mombasa port will be completed by March 2013, according to port officials.

The state-of-the-art security system, which is jointly funded by the World Bank and the Kenyan government, 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 in an earlier interview.

The project that was started two years ago is being implemented by Magal Security Systems of Israel.

It will see the port fitted with closed circuit television with long range day and night surveillance cameras, static pan tilt zoo cameras among other security elements – all aimed to safeguarding the port from piracy and terrorism.

The hi-tech security system will also enhance sea surveillance while improving screening of containers to check against drugs, counterfeit products and other illicit goods.

Mombasa port security system project 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.

Albert Andeso holds a degree in Civil Engineering from the University of Nairobi. He has extensive experience in construction and has been involved in many roads, bridges, and buildings projects.