Dependent on Nairobi for cargo exports: Kenya Airports Authority’s Bwana

April 18, 2020: As Kenya Airways operated its second passenger freighter using a B787-8 on April 16 to London carrying fresh produce, after flying with medical supplies to Johannesburg on April 12, Logistics Update Africa in its second webinar brought forward some insightful discussion on the capacity from Nairobi.

During the webinar on 'How Last-Mile delivery services can keep up with Covid-19 demand for critical medical and food shipments, Jacob Bwana, commercial manager - cargo at Kenya Airports Authority pointed out the reliance on Nairobi for cargo to the landlocked neighbouring countries and European countries.

Bwana stated, "The only problem we are facing is reduction in capacity due to Covid-19. The demand for the export still exists but the lockdown in Europe closed down the distribution channels. It has really impacted our business. Although, we stay positive and is looking at increasing the capacity."

He further continued, "We have seen passenger flight conversion into freighter and even Ethiopian Airlines has started its operations into Nairobi. Probably, Kenya Airways may continue to uplift the medical kits and essentials goods. With the reduction of capacity from 5,000 tonnes to 1,300 tonnes, we are trying to fill the deficit and trying to negotiate with the airlines so they can still provide service both south - and north-bound."