This archive report was first published on 18 June 2020.
Published on June 18, 2020, a directive by the government to use Naivasha inland port for transit goods has sparked intense debate in recent weeks, with serious implications for regional trade.
The use of Naivasha inland port is part of the Northern Corridor transport system, promoted by EAC Heads of State, and aims to ease congestion at the Mombasa port and expedite freight movement.
However, concerns have been raised by key stakeholders, including Uganda, which has written twice to Kenya expressing objections to the use of Naivasha port, citing increased freight costs and a negative impact on business.
Cargo handlers, clearing and forwarding agents, traders, and logistics chain players based in Mombasa have also vocally opposed the move, citing a loss of business and its impact on the economy.
Infrastructure Cabinet Secretary James Macharia has sought to clarify the issues, stating that he was simply executing a directive by the Heads of State, and that the relocation was part of strategies to avert Covid-19 infections by easing congestion at the Mombasa port.
