KRA, KPA Announce Major Reforms to Ease Congestion at Port of Mombasa

The Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) and the Kenya Ports Authority (KPA) have announced a series of major reforms aimed at reducing congestion at the Port of Mombasa and speeding up cargo clearance.

The reforms were unveiled on January 24, 2026, during a high-level meeting bringing together key players in the maritime and logistics sector, including transporters, shippers, freight forwarders, ship agents and regulators.

According to KRA Commissioner-General Humphrey Wattanga, the measures mark a major shift toward a more efficient, predictable and digitally driven port system that will support trade and economic growth.

“The Port of Mombasa is not only a national asset but also a critical regional gateway. Our goal is to eliminate bottlenecks, reduce cargo dwell time and create a reliable clearance system that supports trade,” Wattanga said.

KPA Managing Director Captain William Ruto reaffirmed the port authority’s commitment to working closely with KRA and industry stakeholders to implement the reforms. He said the changes will improve operational flow and strengthen Mombasa’s competitiveness as a regional and global port.

One of the key measures agreed upon is the transfer of long-stay cargo earmarked for auction or destruction to designated Container Freight Stations. This will apply to cargo that has remained at the port for more than 21 days. The exercise will begin at the G-Section of the port and is expected to free up yard space and ease congestion.

To further speed up clearance, KRA will expand its Pre-Arrival Processing system. Priority will be given to bulk cargo, low-risk shippers and Authorized Economic Operators, allowing cargo to be processed before arrival and reducing delays.

KRA will also introduce a multi-vendor model to address shortages of Regional Electronic Cargo Tracking System (RECTS) seals. The move is expected to ensure uninterrupted cargo tracking and prevent disruptions caused by seal shortages.

In addition, KRA and KPA will work with Kenya Railways Corporation to deploy more wagons on the Standard Gauge Railway (SGR). This will help move cargo faster to inland container depots in Embakasi and Naivasha, easing pressure on the port and key road corridors.

Stakeholders also agreed to increase the use of Lamu Port for transshipment cargo to reduce pressure on Kilindini Port. KPA has committed to providing the necessary infrastructure and resources to support transshipment operations at Lamu.

To improve the handling of empty containers, KPA has set aside a dedicated area within the port for stacking and loading empty units. A new framework for managing empty containers will take effect on January 26, 2026, and is expected to improve coordination and turnaround times.

The reforms will be supported by deeper integration of digital systems to reduce paperwork, cut manual processes and improve efficiency. KRA will also deploy additional staff at RECTS offices and port gates to speed up cargo arming and exit procedures.