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Reforms needed to end congestion at Mombasa port
Fuel tankers enter the Kenya Ports Authority yard at Gate 12 in Mombasa on July 30, 2024.
The Kenya Ports Authority (KPA) is grappling with severe traffic congestion at the Mombasa port, a vital gateway for East African trade, that is causing significant delays and frustrations for transit drivers.
The root of the problem lies in the slow process of attaching tracking gadgets by Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) staff. This inefficiency has led to prolonged waiting times, sometimes stretching into days.
In an age where digital solutions are revolutionising industries, it is perplexing that KRA has not sought professionals to develop a system that can expedite the attachment of tracking gadgets.
A streamlined, efficient system is essential to reduce the bottlenecks currently experienced at the port. The lack of such a system not only hampers the port’s operations, but also undermines its efforts to attain the status of a first-world-class port.
The stress and inconveniences faced by drivers are huge. Many have reported waiting for days to enter the facility, only to encounter further challenges while loading their cargo at the yard. This prolonged waiting time not only affects their schedules, but also has financial implications, as delays can lead to increased operational costs and lost opportunities.
Adding to the woes is the impunity by some KRA staff members who prioritise those who offer bribes, despite the service being meant to be free. This practice undermines the integrity of the port’s operations and exacerbates the delays experienced by honest drivers. It is imperative that investigations be conducted to root out such malpractices and ensure that all drivers receive fair and timely service.
The current state of affairs at KRA’S tracking spot bars KPA from attaining a world-class status and jeopardises the country’s revenue collection targets. Urgent measures are needed to address these inefficiencies.
The frustrations and cries of drivers who have spent days awaiting the service is a clear indication that immediate reforms are necessary. KRA must act swiftly to implement corrective measures that will enhance the efficiency of its operations within the port, uphold integrity and thus ensure that we meet our revenue collection targets within the specified time.
Concerned citizen
