Taifa Gas kicks off construction of LPG storage facility in Mombasa
The entry of Taifa Gas at a site in Dongo Kundu near the port of Mombasa is part of a trade deal between Kenya and Tanzania. NMG
Mombasa. Tanzanian-owned firm, Taifa Gas SEZ Kenya Ltd, has embarked on the construction of a massive 30,000-ton liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) storage facility in Mombasa, Kenya.
Located strategically within the Dongo Kundu Special Economic Zone, just four kilometers from the port, the project promises to not only address a critical gap in Kenya's gas sector but also generate jobs and boost regional economic activity.
"This venture marks a significant investment for Taifa Gas, extending our reach beyond Tanzania and into the wider East African community," stated Veneranda Masoum, Managing Director of the company.
"With a projected creation of 90,000 direct and indirect jobs upon completion, this project demonstrates our commitment to not just fuel development but also empower lives across the region."
Taifa Gas, a recognized player in the LPG landscape with operations in Uganda, Rwanda, Burundi, Zambia, DRC, South Africa, and of course, Tanzania, faced initial hurdles in Kenya due to approval delays and land acquisition challenges.
The importance of the project was further underscored by William Ruto, the managing director of the Kenya Ports Authority (KPA), who lauded Taifa Gas' initiative.
"The arrival of Taifa Gas at Dongo Kundu is a testament to the zone's growing appeal for investors," he remarked. "Their innovative underwater pipeline project connecting a port facility to their storage is a truly visionary move that we wholeheartedly support."
Mr. Ruto further highlighted the broader development agenda underway at Dongo Kundu.
"With the Japanese government's continued investment in port infrastructure, including the ongoing construction of the KSh42 billion multipurpose berth, the SEZ is rapidly transforming into a hub for industrial growth and international trade."
He added that several other companies, including those vying for service contracts at the ports of Mombasa, Lamu, and Kisumu, have expressed keen interest in setting up shop at Dongo Kundu.
This influx of investment promises to create a dynamic economic ecosystem, bringing substantial benefits to both Kenya and the wider East African region.
While acknowledging the postponement of service leasing tenders at the port, Mr. Ruto emphasized KPA's commitment to promoting sustainable practices.
"Our partnership with shipping lines for horticultural exports and our collaboration with the International Maritime Organization to reduce carbon emissions demonstrate our dedication to responsible growth and environmental protection," he concluded.
In essence, Taifa Gas' entry into the Kenyan market through the Dongo Kundu LPG storage project signifies a win-win for both countries.
By addressing a critical need in the energy sector, fostering job creation, and contributing to regional economic development, this bold move paves the way for a brighter future for East Africa.
