European Union naval officers from Operation Atalanta on Monday held discussions with senior officials of the Kenya Ports Authority (KPA) in Mombasa, citing continued security gains in the Western Indian Ocean that are drawing more vessels to the region.
During the courtesy call at the Port of Mombasa, KPA Managing Director Capt. William Ruto hailed Operation Atalanta’s role in stabilising the Indian Ocean corridor. He said improved maritime security has strengthened confidence among global shipping lines and supported the steady rise in vessel calls.
Ruto noted that secure sea routes are vital for economic growth, regional trade integration and the competitiveness of East African ports. He added that coordination between national authorities, specialised maritime units and international forces has played a central role in deterring threats.
“The Indian Ocean is becoming safer, and this is encouraging more vessels to pass through,” he said.
Operation Atalanta’s Portuguese Navy Force Commander Joao Pedro Da Silva reaffirmed the mission’s long-term commitment to regional safety, saying the EU naval force will continue supporting maritime security under its expanded mandate.
Pedro Da Silva said the increase in maritime traffic and safer trade routes reflects strong cooperation and trust between international security agencies and governments in the Horn of Africa. He added that the mission remains alert to both persistent and emerging threats that could disrupt global shipping.
The expanded mandate covers maritime surveillance and protection across a wide area spanning Somalia’s coastline, the Gulf of Aden, the Western Indian Ocean and parts of the Red Sea. In addition to counter-piracy operations, the force is also tasked with safeguarding World Food Programme vessels and monitoring compliance with the arms embargo on Somalia.
Operation Atalanta was launched in 2008 as the European Union’s first naval mission and remains a key pillar in securing one of the world’s busiest maritime trade corridors.
