This archive report was first published on 6 August 2019.
On August 7th, 2019, the Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) and Kenya Ports Authority (KPA) implemented a new directive requiring all imported cargo at Mombasa port to be transported through the Standard Gauge Railway (SGR) to the Inland Container Depot in Nairobi.
This move aims to improve cargo logistics at Mombasa port and the Nairobi Inland Container Depot, increasing revenue collection for the government.
However, the directive could have devastating effects on hundreds of Kenyans working as drivers and turn boys of cargo trucks plying the Nairobi-Mombasa Highway, as well as owners of the vehicles who would incur significant losses.
"My members will lose big in the SGR project. Drivers, loaders and turn boys have lost jobs as most containers are collected in Embakasi, Nairobi. Majority of transporters will now be forced to move out of Mombasa as business here is no longer viable," said Kenya Transport Association chief operations officer Mercy Ireri.
Additionally, cargo owners have been ordered to clear their goods within 21 days from the date of discharge of the vessel, failure to which the consignment would be transferred to a designated customs and controlled area awaiting destruction in accordance to the East African Community Customs Management Act, 2004.
