Mombasa Port: Reactions to President William Ruto’s directive

The directive issued by Kenya's new President William Ruto regarding the relocation of clearing and forwarding operations back to the port of Mombasa has sparked a range of responses from stakeholders in the industry. National Chairman of the Car Importers Association of Kenya, Peter Otieno, recently shared his views on CNBC Africa, shedding light on the implications of this directive on importers and the transportation sector at large. Otieno emphasized the importance of allowing importers the flexibility to choose where to clear their cargo based on cost considerations, rather than mandating a specific location for clearance. He highlighted the role of Container Freight Stations (CFS) in facilitating efficient clearance processes and reducing the burden on the main port. Otieno criticized the previous administration's handling of cargo transportation, particularly the implications of the extended Standard Gauge Railway (SGR) services from Mombasa to Naivasha. He pointed out instances where delays and logistical challenges caused significant disruptions to the supply chain, leading to financial losses and operational inefficiencies. By advocating for a more cost-effective and streamlined approach to cargo clearance and transportation, Otieno expressed hope that President Ruto's directive would ultimately result in reduced costs for businesses and consumers alike.