The Kenya Ports Authority (KPA) has confirmed an operational incident involving a Rubber-Tyred Gantry (RTG) crane at the Port of Mombasa, saying no fatalities or serious injuries were reported.
The incident occurred on Thursday, September 17, 2026, at approximately 3:40 p.m., according to a statement issued by KPA on Friday. The authority said its safety and emergency response teams responded immediately after the incident in line with established procedures.
“KPA confirms that an operational incident involving an RTG occurred and was immediately attended to by the Authority’s safety and emergency response teams,” the statement said.
RTG operator sustained minor injuries
According to KPA, the truck tractor (TT) operator involved in the incident was unharmed. The operator of the RTG crane, however, sustained minor soft-tissue injuries to the legs.
The injured worker was taken to hospital for medical evaluation as a precaution. KPA said he received treatment and was subsequently discharged after being cleared by the attending medical team.
“The RTG operator sustained minor soft-tissue injuries to the legs and was taken to hospital for medical evaluation as a precautionary measure,” KPA said.
The authority stressed that the incident did not result in fatalities or serious injuries, addressing reports and speculation circulating on social media.
Investigation underway at Port of Mombasa
KPA said investigations into the circumstances surrounding the incident are ongoing. The authority is conducting a comprehensive review to establish what happened and determine whether corrective measures are required.
“Investigations into the circumstances and cause of the incident are currently underway,” the statement said.
KPA added that the review is being undertaken in accordance with its safety and incident management protocols.
The Port of Mombasa is a key component of Kenya’s maritime transport infrastructure, handling cargo serving Kenya and other countries in the region. Any operational incident at the facility can therefore attract significant public and stakeholder attention.
KPA urges public to rely on official information
The authority has urged members of the public and port stakeholders to rely on official KPA communication channels for verified information about the incident.
KPA also appealed to the public to avoid circulating unverified reports that could cause unnecessary alarm or misinformation.
“The Authority remains steadfast in its commitment to the safety and wellbeing of employees, stakeholders, and port users,” the statement said, adding that it remains committed to the continued delivery of “safe, efficient, and reliable port operations.”
KPA thanked stakeholders for their cooperation, patience and understanding as investigations into the Port of Mombasa RTG crane incident continue.
The authority has not, in the statement, disclosed the specific circumstances that led to the crane incident or identified any cause. Further details are expected to depend on the outcome of the ongoing investigation.
