Kenya and Uganda Explore Collaboration for Inland Port to Facilitate Trade

The proposed dry port, a joint venture between Kenya and Uganda, is expected to materialize within the next five years, according to Capt Ruto. He previously urged a delegation of Ugandan MPs to support the idea during their visit to Mombasa, emphasizing the desire to streamline the movement of cargo from Mombasa to Uganda.

Uganda had previously attempted to establish a dry port in Naivasha, Kenya, but faced obstacles due to claims of encumbrances on the earmarked land. In March 2019, then Kenyan President Uhuru Kenyatta offered land to Uganda for a dry port in Naivasha during a meeting with President Museveni in Mombasa.

Uganda, responsible for a significant portion of cargo passing through the Port of Mombasa, has been exploring ways to enhance its trade routes. The Naivasha dry port was initially part of the standard gauge railway project, which has been extended from Mombasa to Naivasha, with plans for further extension to Malaba underway.

Mr. Simon Kaheru, Chairman of the East Africa Business Council Uganda Chapter, highlighted that discussions about the dry port had been ongoing for years. He noted that the renewed interest is likely linked to discussions around oil and the need to streamline imports through Mombasa.

However, Mr. Kaheru stressed that the success of the dry port depends on eliminating trade barriers, particularly through collaborative efforts among East African member states. He cited the importance of making trade easier for all countries within the East African Community.

As Uganda explores alternative routes, such as those through Tanzania, pressure mounts on Kenya to enhance its services. Mr. Kanakulya JJemba from the Kampala City Traders Association emphasized the need for trade facilitation across the region, calling for mutual efforts from all East African partner states.

“This is trade facilitation at its best. Easing business in the region shouldn’t be a reserve of only Kenya; Uganda should do the same as well for other regional partner states,” said Mr. JJemba.