Richard Kalama

Shipping and logistics professional with practical experience in vessel operations, customs clearance, and port coordination in Mombasa. Practical knowledge of KPA KWATOS system and Customs ICMS platform gained through exposure at Kenya Ports Authority and logistics companies. Strong understanding of shipping documentation, container tracking, and import/export procedures. Looking to contribute my port operations experience and local market knowledge to a growing shipping or logistics company.

Boarding Officer at Express Shipping Line (2026-01 – Present)

• Handle vessel port calls, coordinating between ship captains, port control, and pilot services to ensure smooth arrivals and departures.
• Ensuring timely collection and preparation of Statement of facts accurately and submitting to ship's master for final confirmation and signature.
• Work with Kenya Ports Authority and customs officials to clear vessels by preparing C2 and C18 form accurately.
• Following up with Finance team to ensure port dues and charges are paid on time to avoid any delays and liaising with marine billing department at KPA to provide timely vessel clearance.
• Maintain communication with clients, receivers, owners and charterers to update them on vessel schedules and cargo status.
• Track vessel turnaround times and identify areas where delays occur, suggesting improvements to reduce waiting time.

Shipping and Logistics Intern at Express Shipping Line (2025-06 – 2025-12)

• Assisted in arranging berth bookings, pilotage, and towage services for incoming and outgoing vessels
• Prepared inward manifest and cover letter, submitting to relevant authorities.
• Supported cargo operations by coordinating with stevedores/ master and ensuring that loading/unloading operations going on smoothly while recording any delays.
• Learned maritime regulations and customs procedures by working alongside experienced staff.
• Understood how to resolve documentation errors that can cause costly cargo delays or penalties from KRA.
• Learnt the importance of Notice of Readiness, Statement of facts, key delays and costs on owners account or charterers account.

Transport and Logistics Attachee at LPC Global Logistics (2024-09 – 2024-12)

• Used KPA KWATOS system daily to track container movements at the port and inland container depot, updating status for clients
• Prepared import and export documentation through Kenya Customs ICMS system, including entry forms and cargo manifests
• Conducted physical verification of containers at the yard, checking container numbers, seal numbers, and condition against system records
• Compiled container tally sheets and reported discrepancies to supervisors for correction
• Gained practical understanding of container logistics from port arrival to final delivery

Kenya Ports Authority Attachee at Kenya Ports Authority (2022-10 – 2022-12)

• Observed and participated in ship operations including berth allocation, vessel berthing, and cargo discharge planning
• Learned rail operations for container evacuation from the port to inland destinations
• Assisted with container documentation for empty container repositioning and storage
• Participated in container handling operations at the yard, understanding equipment used and safety procedures
• Supported the claims department by gathering information on damaged cargo and potential lost containers

International Shipping Practice Certificate in Shipping – Tanzania National Institute of Transport (2024-03 – 2024-12)

Diploma in Maritime Transport & Logistics in Maritime Transport & Logistics – Kenya Coast National Polytechnic (2021-09 – 2024-07)

Certificate in Shipping Management in Shipping Management – Kenya Coast National Polytechnic (2021-01 – 2021-11)

Kenya Certificate of Secondary Education (KCSE) – Valery Macmillan High School (2016-01 – 2019-11)