The state minister for economic monitoring Beatrice Akello has applauded the operationalization of both the Nairobi and Naivasha ICDs, which have greatly boosted transit trade along the Northern Corridor due to improved efficiency in cargo handling.
Speaking during the tour of the facilities, the minister attributed the growth of Uganda’s export and import volumes to the seamless clearing process at both ICDs, which has allowed traders to pay less in demurrage charges.
The minister also held discussions with officials from the Uganda Revenue Authority (URA), Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA), and Kenya Railways stationed at the facilities.
Minister Akello is leading a delegation on a mission to assess the multimodal transport infrastructure along the Northern Corridor, aimed at improving regional trade and transport efficiency.
She appreciated the cordial working relations among the agencies in streamlining cargo evacuation processes.
KPA has attractive incentives targeting transit customers utilizing the Naivasha and Nairobi depots, making them competitive in the region by extending special tariffs for importers.
Transit import containers going through the Naivasha ICDs have up to 30 days of free storage before they start accruing charges.
The delegation was received by Manager ICD, Mr. Paul Bor who noted that Uganda is the biggest transit market for Kenya, accounting for over 60 percent of transit cargo saying KPA will ensure the port, along with other inland waterways, are competitive in the region.
Mombasa port
The minister also visited the Port of Mombasa in a tour aimed at assessing the multimodal transport infrastructure along the Northern Corridor for improved regional transport.
Akello commended Kenya Ports Authority for the infrastructural development projects, which have contributed to faster cargo handling and improved efficiency at the port.
Managing Director Captain William Ruto who received the delegation also highlighted the positive impact of the Northern Transit and Transport Coordination Authority (NTTCA), noting how its implementation has significantly streamlined operations and fostered a collaborative spirit among member states.
Captain Ruto further stated that the removal of non-tariff barriers along the corridor have resulted in the growth in transit traffic among northern corridor member states.
