KRA opens cargo tracking market to multiple e-seal providers

NAIROBI, Kenya, Oct 27 – The Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) has opened its electronic cargo tracking system to multiple service providers, ending a single-vendor arrangement that has been in place since 2017. The new framework allows cargo owners and other users to choose their preferred electronic seal providers and agree on how the devices will be supplied and managed. KRA says the change is intended to address shortages of electronic seals at cargo tagging points and problems with ageing devices, which have contributed to delays in cargo processing. The electronic seals track goods moving under customs control. Under the new arrangement, all devices must connect to the East African Community’s Regional Electronic Cargo Tracking System, allowing KRA to monitor cargo movements in real time. The authority expects the multi-vendor system to improve the availability of seals, reduce queues at tagging points and limit disruptions caused by faulty devices and unnecessary tracking alerts. The framework also allows vendors or users to own and manage the devices, depending on their commercial agreements, while KRA retains oversight of customs compliance. Electronic cargo tracking is used to monitor goods in transit and help detect cargo diversion, smuggling and theft across borders.