The Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) has launched an initiative aimed at enhancing revenue collection and alleviating traffic congestion at the Malaba border point. The newly established service center at the Malaba One Stop Border Post will integrate various government agencies to expedite the clearance process for both outbound and inbound cargo.
KRA Deputy Commissioner Chege Macharia noted that the current snarl-ups are primarily due to the long hours agents spend moving back and forth seeking necessary clearances. “This service center seeks to speed up the movement of goods and people by reducing clearing time and curbing revenue pilferage through smuggling and extensive bribery,” he explained.
Macharia emphasized that the initiative aims to foster collaboration among government entities, reduce delays in clearance, and enhance trade both locally and internationally. The tax authority anticipates an 80% growth in revenue collection at the One Stop Border Post (OSBP) in the upcoming financial year.
Currently, the Malaba OSBP processes an average of 2,000 trucks daily—1,400 for outbound cargo and 600 for inbound cargo. The KRA aims to increase these figures with a revenue target exceeding Sh10 billion annually. In September, the authority collected Sh946 million in taxes from the Western region.
Notably, the Malaba OSBP accounts for over 80% of customs revenue collected by the KRA at all border posts, significantly contributing to regional and international trade. “The center will play a significant role in revolutionizing service delivery and establishing a citizen-centered approach that enhances efficiency and effectiveness,” Macharia stated. He added, “Our primary mandate is customer service delivery and creating a business-enabling environment by minimizing barriers and costs associated with doing business.”
Opening of the centre marked the culmination of the service week observation by KRA.
KRA staff served more than 200 truck drivers with coffee to express their gratitude.
KRA has experienced remarkable growth in customs revenue largely attributed to implementation of OSBP at other border points.
Macharia issued a stern warning to staff behind revenue pilferage and theft of KRA gadgets, adding that the government has set a team to crack down on the syndicates.
KRA deputy commissioner marketing and communication Grace Wandera said the institution has taken the concerns raised by truck drivers, cross-border traders and clearing agencies seriously.
“You will see drastic changes from security, operation and service delivery,” she said.
A month ago, truck drivers issued a strike notice over insecurity and inefficiency at the border point, where drivers experienced regular scanners breakdown causing snarl-up to go beyond Kanduyi.
