Factors Influencing Container Terminals Efficiency in Kenya: A Case of Mombasa Port
Loading...
Files
Date
2018
Authors
Muli, Carolyn Mueni
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
KESRA/JKUAT - Unpublished research project
Abstract
The aim of Containerization of ship cargo was to cut down the costs of maritime transport by reducing cargo handling costs Levinson, (2010). Instead of loading/unloading each piece of transport item to or from a ship in a labor-intensive manner, Containerization increases the efficiency and speed of transport by reducing the packing requirements and handling processes at all transfer points. However, the deployment of larger ships demands huge investment in providing greater depth alongside the berth of the calling ports as well as more powerful quay cranes with long outreach and lift height (UNCTAD, 2006). The objective of the study was to assess the factors influencing container terminals efficiency in Kenya using a case of Port of Mombasa. The Specific objectives were to determine the influence of cargo handling equipment on container terminal efficiency, to establish the influence of training of training and technical skills of terminal operators on container terminal efficiency, to find out the influence of infrastructural facilities on terminal efficiency and to establish the influence of customs clearance procedures on container terminal efficiency. The study applied Efficiency Theory, Productivity Theory and Envelopment Analysis Theory for the study. Quantitative research techniques were used during data presentation using inferential statistics to draw conclusions from the nominal measurement scale. Stratified sampling technique was used to identify and select eligible participants for the study sampling since it allowed the researcher to choose subjects who are in the best position to provide information required. Reliability was tested using Cronbach’s Alpha. Inferential statistics such as Pearson’s correlation and multiple regression analysis was used for further analysis. Data was analyzed using statistical packaging social sciences software (SPSS) version 23 to find the relationships and averages of the data in addition to tabular presentations for understandable presentation. The findings indicated that the independent variables which were equipment, training and technical skills, infrastructural facilities and customs clearance procedures had a significant influence on container terminal efficiency. The study revealed training and technical skills had the highest performance therefore its role in terminal efficiency is very important and should be given more attention. The study found out that equipment was a crucial element at the Mombasa port and they needed to be upgraded. Also it was recommended that the government and other key stake holders needed to invest in robust infrastructure to increase connectivity in the region and spur economic growth.
Description
Keywords
Container Terminals, Mombasa Port