The Kenya Ports Authority (KPA) has implemented its anticipated full IT structure that seeks to capitalise on its growth through the port of Mombasa.
The online system is the first of its kind in East Africa to consist of the SAP Financial Supply Chain Management (SAP FSCM) software, SAP Supplier Relationship Management (SAP SRM) software and SAP Employee and Manager Self-Service software.
In addition to bringing everything online, the system will improve employee data accuracy as staff members are able to transparently view their own data, ensure quicker completion of processes and improve traceability and visibility in tendering processes.
SAP had initially partnered with KPA in 2002 in the automation of loan and investment scheduling, which enabled KPA to effectively monitor and manage the full spectrum of all their financial instruments with greater transparency and control.
Catherine Wairi, chief financial officer at KPA, said: “SAP has played a significant role enabling us to continue to generate profits in our business.
“Previously, we used to experience serious stumbling blocks like lost revenue and mismanaged customer disputes due to the outdated manual systems with which we used to work.
“With SAP’s help, we installed a first-class financial supply chain management system and brought everything online. Through this process, we have recovered over KSh210 million (US $2.5 million) in unpaid credit.”
Over the last 11 years, SAP has supported the KPA in realising its mission to become a world-class sea port of choice by enabling the organisation to consolidate its business processes and streamline its supply chain into one holistic and online system.
Pfungwa Serima, chief executive officer (CEO) of SAP Africa, said “SAP Africa is proud to have helped KPA go from strength to strength in a competitive environment.
“This East African success story clearly demonstrates how SAP software helps forward-looking businesses remain ahead of the game. We look forward to the future growth of this partnership in making Kenya the primary gateway into the region.”
The upgrade comes a month after President Uhuru Kenyatta directed the clearing process at Mombasa Port to be digitised.
