By establishing simultaneous operations in Kenya and Uganda, Al Sharqi Shipping aims to structure a high-performance logistics corridor between the Middle East and East Africa. This expansion reflects current dynamics in logistics in Africa, supporting African trade and the modernization of the supply chain in Africa.
A Regional Strategy at the Heart of Transport in East Africa
Dubai-based Al Sharqi Shipping has officially announced the launch of its operations in Kenya and Uganda, marking a key milestone in its African strategy. The stated objective is clear: to capture the entire logistics value chain in East Africa and accelerate trade flows between the United Arab Emirates and high-growth African markets.
This move comes at a time of profound transformation in transport in Africa, where digitalization, corridor reliability, and cross-border flow management have become critical competitiveness drivers.
Kenya and Uganda: Two Complementary Pillars of the African Supply Chain
Kenya, a Strategic Gateway for African Trade
In Nairobi, Al Sharqi Shipping is positioning Kenya as its primary entry point for cargo destined for East Africa. The country benefits from a favorable regulatory environment, reinforced by the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) between the UAE and Kenya.
This presence allows the operator to leverage existing African logistics infrastructure, particularly the Port of Mombasa—a key hub for maritime transport in Africa—before inland distribution via road transport in Africa.
Uganda, a Transit Hub for Landlocked Markets
The Kampala office plays a central role in managing the supply chain in Africa for the Great Lakes region. Uganda serves as a transit platform for strategic landlocked markets such as Rwanda, South Sudan, and the Democratic Republic of Congo.
This setup optimizes import-export operations in Africa by reducing transit times and securing flows along one of the region’s most complex logistics corridors.
Targeted Investments in Infrastructure and Supply Chain Management in Africa
Securing the Mombasa–Nairobi–Kampala Corridor
To strengthen operational control, Al Sharqi Shipping is investing in enhanced local capabilities, including dedicated trucking fleets for road transport in Africa along the strategic Mombasa–Nairobi–Kampala axis. This corridor is vital for regional trade but continues to face operational and regulatory challenges.
Customs Acceleration and Digitalized Flows
The company is also deploying proprietary processes to streamline customs clearance in Kenya and Uganda. These tools aim to improve supply chain management in Africa while providing real-time visibility of cargo movements from Dubai to the Ugandan hinterland.
This approach aligns with logistics trends in Africa for 2026, characterized by innovation in transport and logistics in Africa and the adoption of digital solutions tailored to local realities.
A Long-Term Vision for Transport and Logistics in Africa
“This is not just an expansion; it is a strategic commitment to the future of UAE–Africa trade,” said Kashif Rafiq, CEO of Al Sharqi Shipping. According to him, while trade agreements establish the regulatory framework, only a strong local operational presence can address on-the-ground constraints and ensure reliable supply chains.
Al Sharqi Shipping, an Operator Focused on Emerging African Markets
Founded in 1989, Al Sharqi Shipping has gradually established itself as a regional player in maritime transport in Africa, air transport in Africa, and integrated logistics solutions. Its expansion into East Africa is part of a broader strategy to support the growth of African trade through logistics expertise platforms for African businesses.
An Expansion Reflecting Africa’s Economic and Strategic Stakes
Al Sharqi Shipping’s entry into Kenya and Uganda highlights the growing role of East Africa in the reconfiguration of global supply chains. By strengthening African logistics corridors and improving transport performance across the continent, such investments directly contribute to regional competitiveness, market integration, and the long-term economic development of Africa.
