UN/LOCODE: SOKMU📍 Somalia
Port of Kismayu (UN/LOCODE SOKMU)
❖ Coordinates: -0.3560°N, 42.5461°E
❖ Time Zone: Africa/Mogadishu
❖ UN/LOCODE: SOKMU
## About the Port
The Port of Kismayu, located in the Jubbada Hoose province of Somalia, is a significant maritime facility in the region. With a UN/LOCODE of SOKMU, it operates within the Africa/Mogadishu timezone and is situated at coordinates -0.3560455 latitude and 42.5460573 longitude. This port plays a vital role in the country's economy, facilitating the import and export of goods. According to the International Maritime Organization (IMO)↗, the Port of Kismayu is one of the key ports in Somalia, contributing to the country's maritime trade.
### Port Overview
The Port of Kismayu is a medium-sized port, capable of handling a variety of cargo, including containerized goods, bulk cargo, and breakbulk cargo. The port's proximity to the Indian Ocean makes it an ideal location for international trade, with access to major shipping lanes. The port's facilities are designed to accommodate a range of vessels, from small coastal ships to larger international cargo vessels.
## History
The Port of Kismayu has a long history, dating back to the 19th century when it was a major trading center in the region. The port was an important hub for the export of goods such as ivory, spices, and textiles. During the colonial era, the port was controlled by Italy, which invested in the development of the port's infrastructure. After Somalia gained independence in 1960, the port continued to play a significant role in the country's economy. However, the port's development was hindered by years of civil war and instability in the region. In recent years, efforts have been made to rebuild and restore the port's infrastructure, with the aim of reviving its economic importance.
### Historical Significance
The Port of Kismayu has historical significance as a major trading center in the region. The port's strategic location made it an important hub for trade between East Africa and the Middle East. The port's history is also marked by its role in the country's struggle for independence, with the port serving as a key location for the importation of goods and supplies. The port's historical significance is recognized by the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD)↗, which has highlighted the importance of the port in the development of Somalia's economy.
## Infrastructure & Facilities
The Port of Kismayu has a range of infrastructure and facilities to support its operations. The port has a total of five berths, with a total length of 1,200 meters. The port's draft is 8 meters, allowing it to accommodate vessels with a maximum deadweight tonnage of 10,000 tons. The port is equipped with a range of cargo handling equipment, including cranes, forklifts, and container handlers. The port also has a storage area of 10,000 square meters, used for the storage of cargo and containers. In addition, the port has a range of support facilities, including a fuel depot, a water supply system, and a waste management system.
### Facilities and Equipment
The Port of Kismayu has invested in a range of facilities and equipment to support its operations. The port has a modern cargo handling system, which includes a range of equipment such as container cranes, mobile cranes, and forklifts. The port also has a range of support facilities, including a customs clearance office, a health and safety office, and a security office. The port's facilities and equipment are designed to meet international standards, with the aim of providing efficient and effective services to its customers.
## Economic Importance
The Port of Kismayu plays a significant role in the economy of Somalia, contributing to the country's GDP and providing employment opportunities for thousands of people. The port is a major hub for the importation of goods, including food, fuel, and construction materials. The port also exports a range of goods, including livestock, charcoal, and agricultural products. The port's economic importance is recognized by the Somali government, which has invested in the development of the port's infrastructure and facilities.
### Economic Benefits
The Port of Kismayu has a range of economic benefits, including the creation of employment opportunities, the generation of revenue, and the stimulation of economic growth. The port's operations have a multiplier effect on the local economy, with the port's activities supporting a range of industries, including transportation, logistics, and construction. The port's economic benefits are also recognized by the international community, with the port playing a key role in the development of regional trade.
## Trade Routes & Major Cargo
The Port of Kismayu is located on a major trade route, with access to the Indian Ocean and the Middle East. The port's trade routes include the Gulf of Aden, the Red Sea, and the Arabian Sea. The port's major cargo includes containerized goods, bulk cargo, and breakbulk cargo. The port's cargo includes a range of goods, such as food, fuel, construction materials, livestock, and agricultural products. The port's trade routes and cargo are supported by a range of shipping lines and logistics companies, which provide services to the port's customers.
Port Intelligence
UN/LOCODE
SOKMU
Country
Somalia
Province / Region
Jubbada Hoose
Latitude
-0.356046
Longitude
42.546057
Timezone
Africa/Mogadishu
Nautical Map (OpenSeaMap)
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the UN/LOCODE for Port of Kismayu?
The official UN/LOCODE for Port of Kismayu is SOKMU.
Where is Port of Kismayu located?
The Port of Kismayu is located in Somalia, Jubbada Hoose. Its coordinates are -0.3560°N, 42.5461°E.
What time zone is Port of Kismayu in?
Port of Kismayu operates in the Africa/Mogadishu time zone.
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About the World Port Index
This data is sourced programmatically. The UN/LOCODE is the official geographic coding scheme used by the United Nations for trade and transport locations.
📍 Nearby Ports
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