This archive report was first published on 27 November 2019.
On November 27, 2019, the government of Kenya took significant steps to combat illicit trade along the Kenya-Ethiopia border, a major challenge for security agencies, the Kenya Bureau of Standards, and the Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA).
According to Major (Rtd) Samuel Kariuki, the KRA Deputy Commissioner for Customs & Border Control, the government aims to ensure that trade along the border conforms to global standards.
Investigations in Moyale and Sololo Sub-counties revealed porous routes used for smuggling contraband goods into the country at Sessi, Laga, Moyale, and Forole areas.
The KRA has developed a multi-sectoral approach to address the smuggling menace, including collaboration with the Ethiopian government to ensure compliance among traders.
Measures have been put in place to seal gaps that have given smugglers an avenue to conduct illicit trade along the border.
