By Tajeu Shadrack Nkapapa
Uganda’s Minister in the Office of the President, Hon. Akello Beatrice Akori has applauded the operationalization of both the Nairobi and Naivasha Inland Container Depot (ICDs), which have greatly boosted transit trade along the Northern Corridor due to improved efficiency in cargo handling.
Speaking during a tour to the facilities, the minister attributed the growth of Uganda’s export and import volumes to the seamless clearing process at both ICDs, which has allowed traders to pay less in demurrage charges.
According to the Kenya Ports Authority Hon. Akori held discussions with officials from the Uganda Revenue Authority (URA), Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA), and Kenya Railways stationed at the facilities.
KPA said that the minister is leading a delegation on a mission to assess the multimodal transport infrastructure along the Northern Corridor, aimed at improving regional trade and transport efficiency.
She appreciated the cordial working relations among the agencies in streamlining cargo evacuation processes.
“KPA has attractive incentives targeting transit customers utilizing the Naivasha and Nairobi depots, making them competitive in the region by extending special tariffs for importers,” Kenya Ports Authority said on X.
“Transit import containers going through the Naivasha ICDs have up to 30 days of free storage before they start accruing charges.”
The delegation was received by Manager ICD, Mr. Paul Bor who noted that Uganda is the biggest transit market for Kenya, accounting for over 60 percent of transit cargo saying KPA will ensure the port, along with other inland waterways, are competitive in the region.