What you need to know:
- KRA has put in a request for the parcel to Turkana County which is the custodian of community land in the region
- The need to establish the new post was informed by a countrywide survey that identified new potential border crossing points
- Uncontrolled entry and exit of people along the border was contributing to loss of revenue and influx of counterfeits, a problem that the new border point will stem
The Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) is seeking 50 acres of land from the Turkana County Government to put up a new One-Stop Border Post between the country and Ethiopia in a bid to stem revenue losses and smuggling of counterfeits.
Through the Border Control and Operation Coordination Committee (BCOCC), the taxman has put in a request for the parcel to Turkana County which is the custodian of community land in the region.
The planned entry and exit point will be at Todonyang in Turkana North Constituency, and is expected to enhance cross-border movement within East Africa Community member states as well as improving the flow of trade. It is also expected to open up Northern Kenya and stem smuggling of goods through the porous border.
Border Management Secretariat Director Kennedy Nyaiyo said the need to establish the new post was informed by a countrywide survey that identified new potential border crossing points.
“Todonyang was among the five points that were identified and approved by the National Advisory Security Committee for establishment of a customs border station. The point of entry and exit will play a significant role in facilitating security of movement of cargo and people as well as enhance investment at the border,” Mr Nyaiyo said.
The One-Stop Border Post will house an office block accommodating all border and security agencies, a parking lot for trucks, warehouses and verification yards equipped with the necessary equipment.
Uncontrolled entry and exit
County Lands Executive Peter Akono noted that uncontrolled entry and exit of people along the border was contributing to loss of revenue and influx of counterfeits, a problem that the new border point will stem.
He also urged the KRA to ensure that it fully adheres to the legislative framework of the Community Land Act by ensuring that locals are fully engaged through public participation.
“There is a need for a Memorandum of Understanding between the county government and KRA to safeguard the interests of the local community and ensure their social inclusion so that they can benefit from such an investment. The leadership must also be involved and consulted,” the county official said.
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