Senators have called for urgent reforms to improve road infrastructure, ease congestion, and address the challenges facing long-distance truck drivers operating along key border routes, including Busia, Malaba, Namanga, and Lungalunga.
Speaking during the Senate Mashinani session in Busia County on October 8, lawmakers decried the inefficiencies, delays, and poor working conditions that continue to affect trade along the country’s busiest transport corridors.
Senate Majority Leader Aaron Cheruiyot led senators in calling for immediate action to modernize operations at the Busia–Malaba border posts, noting that persistent congestion and a lack of proper coordination among border agencies are hindering regional trade, revenue collection, and Kenya’s competitiveness.
The motion proposes the development of a 90-day action plan to decongest border points, enhance road networks, and streamline cross-border systems, ensuring faster and more efficient cargo movement.
The motion was introduced after senators visited the border point in Busia County, where they witnessed the dilapidated infrastructure, long queues of truck drivers, and significant delays in clearance.
Lawmakers have urged government agencies, including the Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) and the Kenya National Highways Authority (KeNHA), to move swiftly in implementing reforms across all border points
Senators Weigh In on Border Reforms
Mombasa Senator Senator Faki Mohamed Mwinyihaji echoed these concerns, saying Kenya has yet to fully enjoy the benefits of the East African Community (EAC) due to inefficiencies at border points.
“We have not yet enjoyed the full fruits of the EAC. Our borders continue to face major challenges, particularly along the Busia–Malaba–Namanga–Lungalunga corridor. Trucks are forced to wait for long hours, which is not good for trade,” he said.
The senator further highlighted the need for better facilities for long-distance truck drivers, including rest areas, sanitation facilities, ambulances, and fire stations along major highways. He also called out cases of harassment and unnecessary delays caused by overlapping administrative processes at border posts.
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Lawmakers Speak on Cross-border Reforms
Senator Ledama Olekina backed the motion, noting that outdated infrastructure and inefficient systems have become major bottlenecks. He emphasized the need for coordinated investment in modern border facilities to improve the movement of goods and people.
Minority Leader Stewart Madzayo, who seconded the motion, highlighted the urgency of implementing reforms to address congestion and enhance trade efficiency. He noted that border posts remain overwhelmed, leading to long queues of trucks and costly delays for transporters.
On his part, Senator Samson Cherargei supported the motion, emphasizing that improved infrastructure and better coordination between government agencies would reduce logistical challenges and facilitate smoother cross-border operations.
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Siaya Senator Oburu Odinga echoed the remarks, calling for stronger regional cooperation to promote the free movement of goods and people across borders. He emphasized that East African countries should work together to eliminate unnecessary barriers that continue to hinder trade and regional integration.
The senators jointly called for a series of reforms, including:
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Modernization of border infrastructure to efficiently handle increased cargo volumes.
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Upgrading access roads and expanding lanes to reduce traffic congestion.
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Automation of customs and clearance systems to eliminate manual delays and corruption.
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Creation of designated rest areas equipped with sanitation facilities, emergency services, and parking for truck drivers.
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Strengthening coordination between border agencies to ensure seamless service delivery and faster clearance.
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