Moyale border post gets Sh207 million equipment boost from EU

The European Union (EU) has donated equipment worth Sh207 million to enhance operations and improve connectivity at the One-Stop Border Post in Moyale.

This effort, according to the government, is aimed at boosting cross-border trade and facilitating smoother movement of goods and people in the region.

Trade Principal Secretary Alfred K'ombudo on Tuesday highlighted the importance of the donated equipment in securing and simplifying cross-border trade along key corridors in the region.

"This equipment worth approximately Sh207 million will ensure safe and smart trading experiences at the border," he said.

The donation, he added, is a significant step forward in promoting regional integration within the framework of the Common Market for Eastern and Southern Africa (Comesa).

"Our gathering here today reaffirms the EU's unwavering commitment to supporting Comesa in realising its ultimate goal — the free movement of people, goods, and services across the region," K'ombudo said.

The equipment handover event at K'ombudo's office was attended by representatives from the EU and Comesa.

Kenya had previously signed a sub-delegation agreement with Comesa on May 16, 2023, aimed at upgrading trade facilitation infrastructure and equipment at the Moyale border.

K'ombudo noted that with the strong backing of member states, Comesa is striving to lower costs and reduce delays associated with imports and exports, both at key border points and throughout the region.

"Central to this effort is the reduction of non-tariff barriers, the implementation of the Comesa Digital Free Trade Area, the World Trade Organisation's Trade Facilitation Agreement, and improvements in Coordinated Border Management, alongside the liberalisation of trade in services and the movement of persons," he said.

The PS also acknowledged that the EU-funded Trade Facilitation Programme, with a budget of Sh7.4 billion (€53 million), is a crucial part of the larger vision of establishing the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).

"As the largest Regional Economic Community, Comesa plays a central role in this vision," K'ombudo added.