This archive report was first published on 8 October 2019.
Kenya is keen to boost its trade with Ethiopia through the One Stop Border Post initiative, even as the Lamu Port South Sudan-Ethiopia Transport (LAPSSET) corridor starts to take shape.
On October 8, 2019, Acting Cabinet Secretary for National Treasury and Planning Ambassador Ukur Yatani visited the Moyale One Stop Border Point (OSBP) in Marsabit County, accompanied by KRA Chairman Francis Muthaura, KRA commissioners, and interior ministry officials.
"We should see more trade volumes passing through the OSBP at Moyale - an indication of a robust business activity between Kenya and Ethiopia. Unfortunately, we are not witnessing this. I wish to urge residents in this region to make use of this exemplary facility for their good and the good of both Kenya and Ethiopia," said the CS.
The CS emphasized the government's commitment to working towards full implementation of an agreement on free trade between the two countries.
He directed KRA to convene regular multi-agency meetings to address issues that may have led to the underutilization of the OSBP and encouraged the authority to conduct more stakeholder sensitizations in the region to enable the communities living at the border to have a better understanding of taxation and the need for compliance.
"This will also ensure that any misunderstandings that may be existing between KRA and stakeholders are solved amicably hence boosting compliance and resulting to more revenue for the government," he noted.
Mr. Muthaura, on his part, said KRA is willing to play a key role in facilitating revenue collection and enhancing compliance.
"KRA and the business community in this region need to work together for the betterment of the region and the country. KRA is therefore obliged to provide a conducive environment for business to thrive," said Muthaura.
