Kenya: $11M Security Boost For Ports

Security at Kenya’s ports is being upgraded at a cost of more than $11m. The World Bank-funded project includes the installation of an integrated security solution, involving an electronic access control system at all entrances. It will also see the fixing of an automatic perimeter intrusion detection system and a remote surveillance monitoring system or (CCTV). The recent inauguration of the Mombasa Port Search and Rescue Center was part of the project, according to AllAfrica.com. The center would be used to monitor the Somalia, Kenya, Tanzania and the Seychelles coastlines and would be linked to two others in South and West Africa. The port is also in the process of implementing the International Safety Management (ISM) code. This is being done by British Maritime Technology System which is part of the World Bank program. Once completed it will enable the port to be ranked by a world society such as the Lloyds classification for ISO certification. Port security agencies would be trained in maritime safety and counter-terrorism. The courses, to be conducted by the U.S. Coast Guard, include handling of dangerous cargo and explosives in the port and counter-terrorism. (Source: AllAfrica.com)