Track cargo and pay KPA port charges (KWATOS)
Kenya Ports Authority · sources read 4 Oct 2026
Cargo owners and their clearing agents track cargo on KPA's online systems, such as KWATOS, linked from kpa.co.ke. Pay KPA's charges before the service is given; import containers get 5 free days in port, then storage is charged daily.
- Fee
- We couldn't confirm a fee from the official page. Check it there before you pay.
- Where
- Online through the KPA systems linked from kpa.co.ke (Links & Downloads, including KWATOS); account opening by email to Credit.control@kpa.co.ke; KPA headquarters in Mombasa
What you need
- To open a KPA cash account: certificate of incorporation, PIN certificate, current customs licence and bank details
- For a credit account, add a bank guarantee of at least KSh 500,000 (or the US dollar equivalent)
Steps
- Open KWATOS from the Links & Downloads page on kpa.co.ke to check your cargo or container status.
- Pay KPA's charges before the service is given. Regular importers and agents can open a cash or credit account by emailing Credit.control@kpa.co.ke.
- Once clearance is done and charges are paid, KPA issues a container release order so you can collect.
Watch out
- Domestic import containers are free for the first 5 consecutive days, counted from the day after discharge and including weekends and public holidays. After that, storage is charged per day in US dollars.
- Unpaid KPA invoices can lead to a lien on your goods, being barred from using the port, and interest at 2% above the Central Bank Rate.
Who can apply
- Cargo owners and their authorised agents.
Official sources (4)
- Links & Downloads kpa.co.ke · read 4 Oct 2026
- Frequently Asked Questions kpa.co.ke · read 4 Oct 2026
- KPA Tariff (Tariff Book) portal.kpa.co.ke · read 4 Oct 2026
- Accounts opening requirements portal.kpa.co.ke · read 4 Oct 2026