Iron ore can be transported to Kenya through a multi-step process typically involving the following methods:
Mining and Initial Processing: Iron ore is mined from deposits and is often subjected to initial processing, including crushing and screening, to remove impurities and prepare it for transport.
Rail Transport: In countries where the iron ore is mined, railway systems are often used to transport the ore from mines to ports or directly to local industries.
Maritime Transport: Since Kenya is accessible via the Indian Ocean, iron ore is usually transported by cargo ships. Large bulk carriers load the ore in ports located in mining countries such as South Africa, India, or Australia, and then navigate to Kenyan ports like Mombasa.
Port Handling: Once the iron ore arrives in Kenyan ports, specialized equipment such as cranes and conveyors are used to unload the cargo from the ships to storage facilities.
Land Transport within Kenya: From the port, the iron ore may be transported further inland either by rail or road to reach its final destination, such as steel manufacturing plants or other industrial consumers.
Each of these steps involves coordination between various logistics providers and careful handling to ensure the ore reaches its destination efficiently and without contamination.