This archive report was first published on 18 June 2020.
Published on June 18, 2020, the government's directive on the use of Naivasha inland port for transit goods has sparked debate in recent weeks.
The relocation of cargo to Naivasha port has serious implications on regional trade, with several issues coming to the fore. At the core is the question of viability and cost-effectiveness of the transit port.
Concerns have also been expressed regarding the quality and adequacy of facilities at the Naivasha port. The rationale for Naivasha inland port is that it provides an easy and direct transportation of goods from Mombasa through the Standard Gauge Railway.
However, Uganda, which is among the top users of Mombasa port, has twice written to Kenya in recent weeks to express objection to the use of Naivasha port on the grounds that it will raise freight costs and consequently increase the cost of doing business.
Cargo handlers, clearing and forwarding agents, traders, and those in the logistics chain based in Mombasa have vocally opposed the move, and on several occasions, mounted protests to express their rejection.
Infrastructure Cabinet Secretary James Macharia has sought to clarify the issues, explaining that he was simply executing a directive by the Heads of State. However, pertinent issues have been raised which Mr Macharia and his team have to address.
