March 19, 2024

COVID-19: KPA Strikes Deal with Port Stakeholders Over SGR Directive

Parliamentary Investment Committee Chairperson Abdulswamad Nassir addressing the media at KPA headquarters on Monday. Image: PETER KOMBE

MCK P4

By PETER KOMBE
Email: thecoastnewspaper@gmail.com

Kenya Ports Authority (KPA) on Monday struck a deal with port stakeholders on the way forward on the previous government directive requiring importers to transport cargo through the standard gauge railway (SGR).
Led by Parliamentary Investment Committee (PIC) chair Abdulswamad Nassir the stakeholders and activists agreed with KPA to put a public notice in the local dailies Tuesday 7.
Nassir revealed that the use of Mombasa-Naivasha SGR cargo service remains optional.
The PIC Chair said according to an earlier agreement jointly issued by KPA and Kenya Revenue Authority KRA commissioner general the use of SGR remains suspended.
Meanwhile, Muslims for Human Rights chairperson Khelef Khalifa expressed his optimism following the deal.

Port stakeholders take a tour of the Port facility on Monday before stamping the deal. Image PETER KOMBE

“Today I will confine myself to the topic of the day. As activists and interested parties we would like to see that the directive is effected,” Khalifa said.
Meanwhile, Likoni legislator Mishi Mboko decried communication breakdown on some of the decisions made by some of the authorities.
She called on a proper channel of communication in a bid to address some of the teething challenges facing Kenyans.
“Feedback is pivotal. We want a thorough consultative process. We will be happy should we see the public notice in our dailies in accordance with our agreement,” Mboko said.
Kenya Transporters Association chief executive Dennis Ombok said he was optimistic about the deal.

Port stakeholders during an indoor meeting at the port headquarters on Monday. Image: PETER KOMBE

He thanked Kenya Ports Authority for striking the deal.
The directive led to an uproar among the business community, transporters and human rights activists in Mombasa county.
Fast Action Business Community Movement has been spearheading the peaceful protests against what they term as forceful transportation of cargo through SGR.

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