New Digital System Rolled Out as Mandatory Cargo Insurance Begins

The Kenya International Freight and Warehousing Association (KIFWA), in partnership with leading insurance firms, has launched a Digital Marine Cargo Insurance (DMCI) platform ahead of the enforcement of mandatory marine cargo insurance requirements starting July 1, 2026.

The platform, unveiled on June 30, aims to streamline how importers and clearing agents obtain marine cargo insurance certificates by offering a fully digital, integrated system.

“The platform provides a seamless, secure, and fully compliant digital solution for obtaining Marine Cargo Insurance certificates through an integrated ecosystem linked to payment gateways provided by E-citizen, KRA ICMS, M-Pesa, participating banking institutions, and relevant regulatory bodies,” the partners said

KIFWA partnered with APA General Insurance, Britam General Insurance, CIC General Insurance, Old Mutual General Insurance, Pacis Insurance, Dynamique, and eCitizen to roll out the system, which connects directly to key government and financial platforms.

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KIFWA Drives Seamless Digital Processing

The DMCI platform allows users to instantly obtain insurance certificates through a secure and compliant digital process.

It integrates with multiple payment channels, including eCitizen, M-Pesa, banks, and KRA’s Integrated Customs Management System (ICMS), enabling real-time payment verification and faster processing.

Stakeholders expect the system to significantly reduce delays in cargo clearance by automating key procedures that were previously manual.

“Developed through a strategic partnership between KIFWA and its insurance partners, the Digital Marine Cargo Insurance Platform is designed to simplify compliance while enhancing efficiency, transparency, and service delivery for importers, clearing and forwarding agents, and the wider logistics industry,” the statement added.

Boost to Efficiency and Compliance

KIFWA says the platform will simplify compliance with the new insurance requirements while improving transparency and service delivery across the logistics sector.

The system targets importers, clearing and forwarding agents, and other players in the supply chain, offering a centralized solution designed to enhance efficiency in cargo handling and documentation.

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Nationwide Training Underway

To support the transition, KIFWA and its partners have already conducted sensitization and training sessions in key border and trade towns, including Nairobi, Mombasa, Malaba, Busia, Namanga, and Isebania.

The training program will continue over the next 12 months, focusing on platform access, certificate processing, payment procedures, customs integration, and claims reporting.

KIFWA has urged its members to adopt the platform and take advantage of ongoing training to ensure smooth operations under the new regulatory framework.

With the July 1 deadline now in effect, the association emphasized that embracing the digital system will be critical for uninterrupted cargo clearance and compliance with marine cargo insurance requirements.

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Representatives from the Kenya International Freight and Warehousing Association (KIFWA), Dynamique Insurance Brokers Ltd, and managing directors of leading insurance companies pose for a group photo during the launch of the Digital Marine Cargo Insurance Platform at the Argyle Grand Hotel Nairobi Airport on June 30, 2026.
PHOTO/ FILE