Players in the Kenya’s key agencies have unveiled new resolutions aimed at promoting trade and strengthening service delivery in the country’s entry points including seaports, airports, and border crossings.
In a meeting, the Boards of the Kenya Bureau of Standards (KEBS), Kenya Ports Authority (KPA), Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA), and Kenya Airports Authority (KAA) held a joint engagement to enhance operational efficiency and ensure the public receives quality and timely services.
The meeting was a follow-up to a previous session held in February 2024 and aligns with a directive from President William Samoei Ruto to ensure seamless operations at all ports of entry to optimize port performance, streamline trade processes, and increase revenue mobilization.
Among the resolutions from the meeting is the acquisition of advanced scanner technology for all points of entry in Kenya, including seaports, airports, and border crossings.
All agencies will participate in the implementation phase to ensure the successful deployment of this technology.
Moi International named best airport in Africa, wins customer excellence awards
In addition, the four corporations committed to finalizing a framework for pre-arrival cargo clearance at Kenyan ports. This initiative is expected to significantly reduce turnaround times and enhance trade facilitation.
The corporations will also fast-track the development of a framework for managing long-stay cargo, including digitizing the process to improve tracking and clearance efficiency.
For the non-reportable goods set for disposal, KRA will serve as the lead agency on the Multi-Agency Destruction Committee, and will work alongside the National Environment Management Authority (NEMA) and other relevant agencies.
The agencies clarified that goods due for destruction will be processed within the next three months.
The taxman will further spearhead training to enhance staff capacity across agencies. Through the Kenya School of Revenue Administration, KRA, will develop a Training Needs Implementation Plan that incorporates KAA’s board training requirements.
As critical contributors to Kenya’s trade facilitation, safety, and economic growth, the four corporations further agreed to continue using government mediation channels to resolve any outstanding tax disputes, ensuring timely and effective resolutions.
A technical committee will be established to address administrative matters affecting service delivery, including systems integration, compliance with airport passenger screening processes, and a review of importation frameworks for aircraft and baggage screening at entry points.
