The Shippers Council of Eastern Africa (SCEA) convened a Stakeholder Sensitization Workshop on 24th September 2026 at Panari Hotel, Nairobi, bringing together industry stakeholders, regulators and technical experts to discuss emerging requirements affecting cargo importation, exportation and logistics operations.

Kenya Railways Corporation was among the key participants at the forum, which focused on regulatory changes, compliance timelines, cargo clearance processes and their impact on the cost and efficiency of trade.

Speaking during the forum, SCEA Chief Executive Officer Mr. Agayo Ogambi said the Council continues to engage the Government to promote trade facilitation while safeguarding standards and consumer interests.

“We are seeking the government to facilitate trade while taking care of standard and consumer interest. This forum aims at enhancing awareness and addressing the concerns of importers and exporters to enable them become compliant, competitive and efficient”, he said.

Key areas discussed included Advance Cargo Declaration requirements, Export Declaration Documentation under the Finance Act 2026, NEMA Phase II implementation, inspection and certification requirements, and Pre-Export Verification of Conformity processes.

Stakeholders also discussed the new Cargo Monitoring, Screening and Testing requirements by the Kenya Nuclear Regulatory Authority (KNRA), which took effect on 15th August 2026. The framework provides for cargo screening through the KenTrade Trade Facilitation Platform, including the use of Radiation Portal Monitors at the Port of Mombasa and Inland Container Depots.

The business community raised concerns over the additional costs associated with licensing, screening and inspection, as well as potential delays arising from documentation errors and pre-clearance processes. Such delays could increase dwell time, demurrage and storage costs, affecting business competitiveness. For Kenya Railways, the forum provided an opportunity to engage directly with cargo industry players and understand challenges affecting suppliers and exporters.

The Corporation also used the platform to promote rail freight as a reliable and cost-effective transport option while exploring partnerships and new business opportunities across the cargo value chain.

The forum underscored the importance of collaboration between regulators and the private sector in improving compliance, reducing cargo clearance delays and ensuring efficient movement of goods.