KRA, KPA Roll Out Reforms to Ease Congestion at Port of Mombasa

By : Mweru Mbugua 

The Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) and the Kenya Ports Authority (KPA) have unveiled a series of reforms aimed at easing congestion at the Port of Mombasa and reducing the time cargo spends awaiting clearance

In a joint statement, KRA said the measures developed in collaboration with port users and other stakeholders—focus on digitisation, improved coordination, and faster evacuation of cargo. The reforms are part of a broader effort to enhance efficiency, strengthen competitiveness, and support trade growth

KRA Commissioner-General Humphrey Wattanga said the changes mark a shift towards a more predictable, technology-driven operating environment at the port, which serves as both a national asset and a critical regional gateway

“The Port of Mombasa is not only a national asset but a vital regional hub. Our objective is to eliminate bottlenecks, reduce cargo dwell time, and build a reliable, digitally enabled clearance system that supports trade and economic growth,” Wattanga said during a high-level meeting with maritime and logistics stakeholders

KPA Managing Director Capt. William Ruto noted that the success of the reforms will depend on close collaboration among all players in the port ecosystem

“These reforms will unlock capacity, improve operational flow, and strengthen Mombasa’s competitiveness as a regional and global port. KPA will commit the necessary infrastructure and resources to ensure successful implementation,” he said

As an immediate measure to decongest the port, stakeholders agreed to relocate long-staying cargo earmarked for auction or disposal to designated container freight stations. The exercise will begin with consignments that have remained at the port for more than 21 days, starting with those in the G-section, a move expected to free up yard space and improve cargo flow

To further accelerate clearance, KRA will expand the use of advance processing of documentation, particularly for bulk cargo, low-risk shipments, and consignments handled by authorised economic operators. This will allow cargo to be cleared before arrival, reducing delays and improving predictability for traders

KRA also plans to address recurring shortages of electronic cargo tracking seals by opening the system to multiple suppliers through a competitive selection process, a move expected to enhance reliability and prevent disruptions

In addition, KRA and KPA will work with the Kenya Railways Corporation to increase the number of wagons on the Standard Gauge Railway, enabling faster movement of cargo to inland depots in Embakasi and Naivasha. The initiative is expected to ease pressure on the port and major road corridors while improving turnaround times

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Stakeholders further agreed to scale up the use of Lamu Port for transshipment cargo to reduce congestion at Kilindini and maximise the capacity of the northern maritime corridor. KPA said it will provide the required facilities and operational support to boost transshipment activities at Lamu

To improve the handling of empty containers, KPA has set aside a dedicated area within the port for stacking and loading. A new industry-wide framework on empty container management is scheduled to take effect on January 26, 2026, and is expected to enhance coordination and reduce delays

The reforms will be reinforced through deeper integration of digital systems to reduce paperwork and manual processes. KRA will also deploy additional staff at cargo tracking offices and port gates to speed up sealing and exit procedures

Officials said the changes are expected to significantly shorten cargo dwell times and reinforce Kenya’s position as East Africa’s leading logistics hub