Mitchell Cotts Freights Kenya Limited, in collaboration with Perishable Movements Kenya Limited and Fresh Handling Kenya Limited, unveiled Kshs 30.0 million in dry cargo and cold storage facilities at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA).
The cold storage occupies 1,943 SQM, whereas the dry cargo storage will take up 4,174 SQM, summing up to 7,609 SQM of total space occupied by the facilities in JKIA at the landslide of the air-cargo terminal.
Both facilities are designed to provide more space to preserve horticultural products to mitigate losses incurred by exporters.
“The improvement of standards of service in the aviation industry is a shared responsibility of our stakeholders. Our shared prosperity is dependent on all the players performing at optimum levels.” – KAA CX Manager, Dominic Ngigi #VacuumCooler#KenyanExports#LongerShelfLife pic.twitter.com/To9CDTyZFU
— Kenya Airports (@KenyaAirports) January 12, 2023
The cold storage facility will use vacuum cooling technology to extend the shelf-life of export products while reducing the amount of waste generated by air cargo storage operations.
“Overall, with the installation of the vacuum cooler at our cargo terminal, we are confident it will help horticulture farmers maximize their profits. The service is expected to improve the efficiency and reliability of fresh produce exports from Kenya to international markets and will be available to customers who book their cargo through either of our partners,” Mitchell Cotts Managing Director Group Daniel Tanui said.
Consequently, the exporters will enjoy lower costs associated with cooling cargo as the technology is cheaper than other cooling methods and agents, such as dry ice, while still meeting the stringent quality requirements of international markets.
“We have invested heavily in the development of the service and are confident that it will help to increase the quality of fresh produce exports from Kenya,” added Silas Kashindi, CEO Perishable Movements Kenya Limited.
“The vacuum cooler is an innovative cooling solution that rapidly cools freshly harvested produce, preserving its freshness. It will also help reduce waste, keeping produce fresher for longer,” said Esther Kabugi, Head of Operations Fresh Handling Limited.