The government has increased the duty-free threshold for arriving passengers from Sh50,000 to Sh250,000 to streamline customs clearance and improve efficiency at airports.
The announcement was made on Friday as the Cabinet implemented a new airport charter aimed at enhancing coordination among agencies to boost operational efficiency. The charter will take effect in seven days.
In a joint statement, Cabinet Secretaries Davis Chirchir (Roads and Transport), John Mbadi (National Treasury), Kipchumba Murkomen (Interior), and Rebecca Miano (Tourism) outlined key measures to enhance airport operations.
“To further strengthen customs operations, the Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) will enhance staff capacity through training and equip all airport customs officers with body-worn cameras from July 1 to ensure transparency and efficiency,” the statement read.
Additionally, the number of immigration booths at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) will be doubled within 90 days to reduce congestion. The CSs also directed that all staff from the Kenya Airports Authority (KAA), KRA, Immigration, Port Health, KEPHIS, Tourism, National Police Service, and retail concessionaires must wear uniforms and name tags within two weeks.
The Airport Charter introduces an advanced passenger information system to enhance security and streamline operations, in line with a UN resolution. Under the new system, only flagged bags will be opened in a designated screening room to improve passenger experience while maintaining security.
Also Read: Kenya Implements Airport Charter To Boost Efficiency And Security
The government also reaffirmed that all African citizens are now exempt from Kenya’s Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) requirements, making travel into the country easier.
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