CMA CGM will launch its new KILIMA service in August 2025, offering a direct and efficient shipping route between the Far East and key destinations in East Africa and the Indian Ocean, including Kenya and Tanzania.

Designed to optimize logistics and elevate customer experience, the service marks a strategic expansion in the region.

CMA CGM noted that the service is a CMA CGM weekly standalone direct service from China to Kenya and Tanzania, with the first call scheduled for August 24, 2025 in Mombasa.

 [Source: CMA CGM]

It offers a full coverage of Asian ports via efficient transshipment in Singapore — with service calling Colombo from China to and from East Africa. It also connects volumes ex India East Coast in relay via Colombo.

CMA CGM announced that cargo bound for Malé will be transshipped via Colombo using its dedicated MALE SHUTTLE service, with the first departure scheduled from Colombo on August 25, 2025. 

Additionally, shipments to Zanzibar, Tanga, Longoni, and Tamatave will be relayed via Mombasa using the KARIBU service, while cargo destined for Port Victoria, Mogadishu, Nacala, and Comoros will be handled via Lamu through both NOURA and KARIBU.

To support inland logistics, CMA CGM also offers connectivity to several landlocked countries in the region, including Uganda, South Sudan, Rwanda, Zambia, Malawi, and the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), enhancing trade flow across East Africa and the Indian Ocean.