Ruto and KRA Launch New Reforms at the Port of Mombasa – What It Means

The Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA), in partnership with the Kenya Ports Authority (KPA) and key industry stakeholders, has unveiled a series of new reforms aimed at decongesting the Port of Mombasa and acceleratingcargo clearance.

The announcement was made on January 24, 2026 during a high-level stakeholders’ meeting chaired by KRA Commissioner-General Humphrey Wattanga and KPA Managing Director Capt. William Ruto.

KRA and KPA Launch Reforms to Decongest Port of Mombasa and Speed Cargo Clearance

Speaking at the event, Wattanga stressed that the reforms mark a strategic shift towards a more efficient, predictable, and digitally-enabled port system that will support trade facilitation and economic growth.

“The Port of Mombasa is not only a national asset but a critical regional gateway. Our objective is to eliminate bottlenecks, reduce cargo dwell time, and build a system that supports trade and economic growth,” he said.

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KPA Managing Director, Captain Ruto, reaffirmed KPA’s commitment to implementing the agreed measures in close partnership with KRA and industry stakeholders, noting that efficiency at the port is a shared responsibility.

“These reforms will unlock capacity, improve operational flow and strengthen Mombasa’s competitiveness as a regional and global port. KPA will dedicate the necessary infrastructure and resources to ensure their successful implementation,” he said.

Key Reforms Introduced by the Taxman and KPA Include:

• Cargo Evacuation: Cargo that has been at the port for more than 21 days and is meant for auction or destruction will be moved to specific Container Freight Stations (CFS). This action aims to quickly free up important yard space and reduce congestion.
• Pre-Arrival Processing: The KRA will expand its Pre-Arrival Processing system. It will focus on processing bulk cargo, low-risk shipments, and consignments from Authorized Economic Operators. This change will allow cargo to be processed before it arrives, reducing clearance times and making the process more predictable.
• Digital Tracking and System Upgrades: To address shortages in Regional Electronic Cargo Tracking System (RECTS) seals, a multi-vendor model will be introduced, strengthening system resilience and ensuring uninterrupted cargo tracking.

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• Enhanced Rail Transport: In collaboration with Kenya Railways Corporation, additional wagons will be deployed on the Standard Gauge Railway (SGR) to accelerate cargo transfer to inland container depots at Embakasi and Naivasha.
• Empty Container Management: KPA has allocated a dedicated site within the port for stacking and handling empty containers. A new framework for managing empty containers will take effect from January 26 2026, aimed at improving turnaround times.
• Utilization of Lamu Port: Stakeholders agreed to increase transhipment through Lamu Port, reducing pressure on Kilindini and unlocking the full potential of Kenya’s northern maritime gateway.

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KPA Managing Director, Captain William Ruto. PHOTO/Handout