The Kenya Transporters Association (KTA) has strongly condemned the reported arrest and detention of Kenyan drivers’ leaders by Ugandan security authorities.
According to the KTA, the arrest of the Kenyan drivers’ leader followed the need to resolve the recent standoff affecting truck drivers operating along the Nimule-Juba corridor.
“The Kenya Transporters Association Ltd(KTA) strongly condemns the reported arrest and detention of Kenyan drivers’ leaders by Ugandan security authorities following the instrumental role in resolving the recent standoff affecting truck drivers operating along the Nimule-Juba corridor,” part of the statement read.
Further, the Association argued that the leaders played a constructive role in representing the interests of drivers.
In addition to representing drivers’ interests, the leaders engaged with the relevant authorities to address unfairness and the irregular arrests of truck drivers in South Sudan.
KTA emphasized that the drivers’ leaders enabled the successful signing of the Record of Resolutions on Trade Facilitation and Highway Security on May 9, 2026.
The signing of the Record of Resolutions on Trade Facilitation and Highway Security subsequently facilitated the full resumption of normal trade operations along the corridor.
Also Read: Exposed: How Sakajas Govt is Killing Businesses with Parking Fees
KTA Stand on the Arrest of Drivers’ Leaders
The Kenya Transporters Association has therefore termed the arrests unjust and deeply concerning, citing the leaders’ good faith.
According to the Association, the arrests of leaders who were working to secure a peaceful resolution but are now being subjected to arbitrary arrest were unfair.
Furthermore, the arrest has already triggered strike action by drivers at the Malaba and Busia border points.
In addressing the ongoing strike by the drivers, the Association noted that since the strike began, there has been significant disruption to cargo movement.
Following cargo movement disruption, there is a potential risk of further escalation that will, in turn, affect the regional trade.
Also Read: KeNHA Announces Temporary Closure of Uhuru Highway
Advice to Uganda Security from the Association
To prevent further disruption to trade along the corridors and the larger potential effect on the regional trade market, the Association has called upon the Ugandan security authorities to release all the detained leaders immediately.
The release of the leaders, as defined by the Ugandan security authorities, should be unconditional and without any set demands.
Further, the Ugandan security authorities have been advised to guarantee the safety of all the detained drivers’ leaders as well as the well-being of all leaders.
In addition, the Ugandan security authorities have been asked to facilitate the safe return of all the detained leaders to Kenya immediately.
KTA has reaffirmed its commitment to holding constructive dialogue to safeguard the welfare, dignity, and the observance of the rights of drivers and transporters throughout their operations in the East African region.
