PS Karugu meets Kwale leaders to unlock trade at Lungalunga border

The meeting focused on resolving persistent barriers affecting the smooth movement of goods through the Lungalunga border point, a critical gateway linking Kenya to Tanzania and the wider EAC market.

Key issues under discussion included the removal of county-level offloading and entry fees imposed on transit trucks, which stakeholders say have increased the cost of doing business and slowed down cross-border trade. The talks also addressed the need to harmonize county legislation with the EAC Treaty and Kenya’s Constitution to guarantee the free movement of goods across member states.

In addition, the leaders explored ways to eliminate unofficial roadblocks along major transport corridors, which have long been cited by transporters as a source of delays, inefficiencies, and added costs.

Dr. Karugu emphasized that resolving these challenges at Lungalunga is essential for safeguarding Kenya’s strategic position as a regional trade hub.

“Addressing these barriers is critical not only for improving efficiency at the border but also for enhancing the competitiveness of Kenya’s trade routes within the region,” she said.

She welcomed assurances from the Kwale County Government that it does not levy cess fees on cargo originating from or transiting within EAC member states, a move expected to ease concerns among regional traders.

The engagement forms part of a broader government push to streamline trade, reduce the cost of logistics, and deepen regional integration under the EAC framework.