KRA Announces 36-Hour System Shutdown

The Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) has announced a 36-hour shutdown of its Integrated Customs Management System (ICMS), warning stakeholders to prepare in advance to avoid disruptions.

In a notice dated Tuesday, March 24, 2026, KRA said the planned system maintenance will run from Saturday, April 4, 2026, at 6:00 p.m. to Monday, April 6, 2026, at 6:00 a.m.

The authority noted that the temporary shutdown will affect customs-related services, potentially affecting importers, exporters, clearing agents, shipping lines, and partner government agencies that rely on the system for cargo clearance and documentation.

KRA Announces 36-Hour Shutdown of Customs System

To minimise disruptions, KRA has urged stakeholders to act early by pre-lodging documents, completing payments, and clearing cargo before the scheduled downtime.

“Submit urgent declarations, complete payments, and clear cargo before the system goes offline,” the notice advised.

The taxman further called on businesses to prioritise clearing perishable and time-sensitive goods ahead of the maintenance window to avoid delays.

According to KRA, the scheduled maintenance is aimed at improving system performance, enhancing stability and reliability, and strengthening security. The upgrade is also expected to deliver a smoother user experience and reduce customer complaints in the long run.

Despite the shutdown, KRA said its customer support services will remain available through its official communication channels, including social media, phone lines, and email.

The authority apologised for any inconvenience caused, noting that the upgrade is part of ongoing efforts to improve service delivery and efficiency in customs operations.

“KRA regrets any inconvenience caused and appreciates the cooperation of all stakeholders as we continue to improve service delivery,” read part of the notice.

Also Read: KRA Introduces Pre-Filled Tax Returns to Simplify Filing for Salaried Kenyans

About the Authority’s Integrated Customs Management System (ICMS)

The Integrated Customs Management System (ICMS) is a modern digital platform developed by the Kenya Revenue Authority to manage and streamline customs operations in Kenya.

It replaced the older SIMBA 2005/2014 system and was rolled out in phases beginning in October 2021.

The initial implementation covered sea cargo operations at the Port of Mombasa, the Inland Container Depot Nairobi, and key border stations, before being progressively extended to include air cargo and other customs processes.

ICMS was developed to address challenges with the previous system, such as:

• Long clearance times
• System downtimes
• Revenue leakages from misdeclarations
• Excessive human discretion
• Limited pre-clearance capabilities

Also Read: KRA to Shut Down iTax System for 4 Hours

ICMS supports key customs functions, including:

• Import and export declarations
• Cargo tracking and clearance
• Processing customs duties and taxes
• Submission of manifests and documentation
• Managing bank guarantees and compliance processes

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KRA Commissioner General Humphrey Wattanga. PHOTO/KRA