The Northern Corridor Transit and Transport Coordination Authority (NCTTCA) and the Kenya Transporters Association (KTA) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to advance eco-driving and sustainable freight transport along Kenya's Northern Corridor, aligning with the Northern Corridor Green Freight Strategy 2030. The agreement targets a 10% improvement in freight fuel efficiency, a 10% reduction in carbon dioxide emissions intensity, and a 12% decrease in particulate matter, black carbon, and nitrogen oxide emissions by 2030. It also includes training at least 1,000 heavy commercial vehicle drivers in eco-driving practices, with focus areas including fuel-efficient driving, road safety, and sustainable fleet management. The partnership aims to reduce transport costs, lower emissions, and enhance operational efficiency through collaborative efforts between government bodies, industry stakeholders, and transport operators.
NCTTCA Executive Secretary Dr. Eng. John Deng emphasized that freight transport is critical to regional trade and that achieving sustainability goals requires active participation from transport operators and drivers. He highlighted the MoU's role in bridging government institutions with industry actors, enabling practical implementation of green freight objectives. 'Eco-driving must become embedded in driver training, fleet management, and company culture,' Deng stated, underscoring the need for systemic changes in how freight operations are conducted. The agreement includes telematics, fuel-monitoring systems, and peer learning initiatives to ensure measurable improvements in fuel efficiency, environmental performance, and road safety.
KTA Chairman Newton Wang’oo described green freight as a dual imperative for environmental and business sustainability, noting that fuel costs constitute a significant portion of transport operators' expenses. 'Reducing unnecessary fuel consumption through better driving, maintenance, and technology use achieves multiple benefits: lower emissions, improved safety, and enhanced competitiveness,' he said. Wang’oo stressed that the collaboration between government agencies, corridor institutions, and the private sector is essential to meet the strategy's targets. The MoU also mandates data collection and performance monitoring to track progress and encourage industry-wide adoption of eco-driving practices.
The initiative reflects a broader effort to address challenges in Kenya's freight sector, including high operational costs and environmental concerns. By integrating eco-driving into daily operations, the partnership seeks to create a greener, safer, and more efficient transport system. Both NCTTCA and KTA reiterated their commitment to fostering collaboration, with Deng noting that 'fuel efficiency, emissions reduction, and road safety are mutually reinforcing objectives.' The agreement marks a pivotal step toward aligning regional trade needs with sustainable development goals, ensuring long-term benefits for stakeholders and the environment.