Wetang’ula urges Lamu Port to learn from Tianjin’s technology

National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetang’ula has called for lessons from China’s Tianjin Port to inform the development of Lamu Port, arguing that technology and skills should accompany infrastructure investment.

During a visit to Tianjin on 15 October, he highlighted automated operations, digital cargo handling and cleaner energy as areas Kenya could examine. He said better efficiency could improve Lamu’s appeal to shipping lines and investors.

Wetang’ula linked the proposal to wider cooperation on manufacturing and technical training. Lamu is part of the corridor intended to connect Kenya more closely with regional markets.

The remarks outline an ambition; they do not announce a completed upgrade or an awarded contract. Costs, procurement arrangements and implementation responsibilities would need to be set out in any specific project.

More reliable port operations could help businesses move goods, but technology alone cannot determine whether exports grow. Production capacity, transport links and access to markets also matter.

The next step to watch is whether the visit produces a defined programme with funding, local training and measurable operating targets.