KRA Strengthens Partnerships and Collaboration with Cross-Border Traders to Foster Regional Trade Growth

The Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) has strengthened its collaboration with cross-border traders and key stakeholders to bolster trading activities across borders and enhance revenue mobilization. During the celebration of International Customs Day at the Busia One Stop Border Post (OSBP) in Busia County, Dr. Lilian Nyawanda, the KRA Commissioner for Customs & Border Control, emphasized the agency’s commitment to developing a simplified and harmonized customs management framework.

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This framework aims to facilitate the smooth movement of goods and people across borders while adapting to evolving economic and social dimensions. Dr. Nyawanda highlighted the evolving role of Customs, emphasizing its focus on promoting legitimate trade, facilitating global supply chains, and mobilizing government revenues.

Mr. Larry Liza, Director for East & Southern Africa Regional Office for Capacity Building at the World Customs Organization, stressed the importance of Customs’ engagement with local, regional, and international trade sectors to address emerging trends in global trade. He emphasized the need for collaboration with various stakeholders to leverage opportunities presented by initiatives like the African Continental Free Trade Agreement.

Mr. Chege Macharia, Deputy Commissioner for Border Control & Enforcement, highlighted the efficiency gains achieved through OSBPs, which have streamlined goods clearance processes and reduced associated costs. He also discussed the successful implementation of the Authorized Economic Operator Program, which has expedited the movement and clearance of goods at ports and border stations.

Representing the Governor of Busia County, Deputy Governor H.E. Arthur Odera urged KRA to collaborate closely with the County Government and other partners to enhance operational efficiency at the Busia OSBP.

Dr. Erick Rutto, President of the Kenya National Chamber of Commerce & Industry (KNCCI), emphasized the significance of public-private partnerships in advocating for mutual recognition of standards within the East African Community (EAC) Region. He called for the implementation of capacity-building programs to empower traders with knowledge on compliance requirements and urged closer collaboration between Customs Administration and key stakeholders like KNCCI to promote cross-border trade and revenue mobilization.

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The event was attended by officials from the Uganda Revenue Authority, Busia County Government, directors from KNCCI, representatives of Micro, Small & Medium Enterprises, the World Customs Organization, and senior KRA officials.

Source: Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA)