This archive report was first published on 15 July 2019.
Published on July 15, 2019, traders importing maize from Tanzania are stuck at the Taveta one-stop border post due to delays by Kenya Revenue Authority officers.
The government's move to allow traders to import duty-free maize to avert a looming shortage has been slowed down by the delays.
Maize traders have been stuck at the post along the Taveta-Holili border for one week due to the extended delays by rogue KRA officers.
On Sunday, the traders protested outside the KRA offices, demanding the transfer of one officer whom they alleged has been frustrating the clearance of their cargo.
Operations have been paralysed at the border point as hundreds of trucks carrying assorted goods including agricultural produce are stuck.
Traders accused an officer based at the KRA offices of demanding bribes from them for their goods to be cleared on time.
"We have been complaining about this facility especially the KRA department but there are no changes. Enough is enough," said Francis Gerison, a trader.
Traders said they incur big losses at the key entry point for goods from Tanzania and accused officers of taking their time to clear their consignments.
Taveta Sub-County Police Commander Lawrence Marwa moved in to calm the protesting traders and assured them that the government will address all the grievances raised.
