This archive report was first published on 6 July 2020.
On June 1, Kenya's Transport Cabinet Secretary James Macharia announced that all cargo destined for Uganda, Rwanda, and South Sudan would be transported through the SGR for clearance at the Naivasha Inland Container Depot (ICD). However, this directive has been put on hold, pending consultations with local and regional stakeholders.
According to Transport Committee Chair David Pkosing, regional governments have demanded additional developments at the Naivasha ICD before the directive can be implemented. These include an expanded marshalling yard, which is expected to be completed by July 15.
The decision is a huge reprieve to freighters who risked losing hundreds of jobs following the ban on using trucks to transport goods from the port city.
Mr. Pkosing stated that the Ministry of Transport is undertaking additional investments at the Naivasha facility, including the expanded marshalling yard. The directive to pick up transit cargo from the Naivasha depot is now optional, rather than compulsory.
It is worth noting that the initial directive was informed by the need to contain the spread of the coronavirus pandemic, as stated by the East African Heads of States and follow-up meetings by ministers responsible for transport in the region.
