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Northern Kenya is a region rich in resources, cultural diversity, and strategic trade potential, yet it remains underutilized in the national development agenda.
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Kenya is making a bold move to transform cross-border trade and logistics in Turkana County with the launch of three new trade facilitation hubs. These strategically positioned centers in Kainuk, Lodwar, and Kakuma will boost economic activity, streamline trade operations, and bolster security along the Northern Corridor, which connects Kenya with South Sudan, Ethiopia, and Uganda.
The newly established centers are set to relieve congestion at the Malaba and Busia border posts, which have long been bottlenecks for cargo movement. By decentralizing trade facilitation, KRA aims to make cross-border business more efficient, particularly for traders transporting goods from Mombasa to South Sudan.
According to Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) Commissioner General Humphrey Wattanga, this initiative marks a turning point in the region’s commercial landscape. “These trade hubs are not just about revenue collection. They are a vital part of enhancing trade efficiency, reducing transit times, and ensuring our borders are secure,” he said during the official launch.
Beyond improving logistics, the hubs will also serve as key checkpoints for monitoring cargo movements and deterring illegal trade practices such as smuggling and cargo dumping. Wattanga emphasized that enhanced surveillance along the LAPSSET Corridor will help prevent criminal activities like highway robberies and tax evasion schemes.
“We are reinforcing border security to protect businesses and consumers from the risks posed by illicit trade,” he stated.
The centers will house KRA officers responsible for ensuring compliance and preventing revenue leakages. This move aligns with the government’s broader strategy to enhance trade security and safeguard legitimate businesses.
Apart from large-scale logistics, the hubs are expected to directly benefit local traders and businesses by providing easier access to essential trade services. Commissioner for Customs and Border Control Lilian Nyawanda highlighted the economic benefits the centers will bring.
“We are not only streamlining international trade but also opening up new opportunities for local entrepreneurs,” she said.
Turkana was chosen for this project due to its strategic position as a gateway to South Sudan. The hubs will facilitate smoother movement of goods and people along the Lokichar-Nadapal-Nakodok route, encouraging regional economic integration.
With improved infrastructure and trade services, KRA anticipates lower operational costs for both the Authority and business owners. Nyawanda noted that the initiative will make trade facilitation more efficient while ensuring compliance with regulations.
The establishment of these hubs signals Kenya’s commitment to strengthening its position as a key trade hub in East Africa. By addressing logistical challenges, enhancing security, and supporting businesses, the government is laying the groundwork for a more structured and accessible trade environment.
As the facilities become operational, traders, transporters, and local communities will experience the benefits of a more efficient and secure trade ecosystem. This initiative is not just about moving goods. It is about building a resilient economic future for Kenya and its regional partners.
With the new hubs in place, Kenya is positioning itself as a regional trade leader. Improved infrastructure, faster cargo clearance, and enhanced security will attract more businesses and investors to the Northern Corridor. As operations expand, these centers are expected to drive economic growth, create jobs, and strengthen Kenya’s trade relations with its neighbors.
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