The Kenyan Government has reversed the directive to have all cargo destined beyond Nairobi cleared at the Naivasha Inland Depot, following pressure from neighbouring economies.
According to credible reports, regional governments have demanded additional developments at the Naivasha inland container depot (ICD) before the directive to pick cargo from the depot can be implemented.
Among the things that the East African states demand to be revamped include an expanded marshalling yard, capable of accommodating cargo traffic expected at the facility.
As a result of the demands, Transport CS, James Macharia told Parliament that plans to invest in a bigger marshalling yard were underway, in a swift construction expected to be completed by July 15.
Nevertheless, Mr. Macharia said that it’s no longer compulsory for cargo to be cleared at the ICD. The facility will be open to clear cargo for the merchants who fancy the SGR option.
The decision is a major reprieve to freighters who risked losing their source of livelihood following the ban on use of trucks to transport goods from the Mombasa port.
The SGR mandatory cargo transit saw the port of Mombasa lose 17b in revenue in 2019, with thousands of job losses recorded at the Port City.
