A delegation from the Kenya Chamber of Business visited URA recently to discuss ways to facilitate trade between the two countries.

The delegation was led by Dr. Samuel Thinguri Warwathe, the Chamber President and National Executive Chairman. He was accompanied by Pena Mutinda the Chief Executive Officer and Bernadette Mwesige Ssempa from the Uganda Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

Dr. Thinguri requested a reduction in the tariffs on key exports to Kenya, saying this would benefit both countries. He also asked for improvements to the infrastructure at various border points to facilitate the establishment of warehouses through bilateral collaboration.

Abel Kagumire, Commissioner Executive Office Operations, welcomed the ideas, saying they align with URA’s objective of facilitating trade within the region.

“The aim is to streamline border clearance processes by having all government agencies work together in one location, which will expedite the handling of imports and exports,” he said.

He concurred that tariffs are still a challenge at borders, especially in Kenya for products like milk, eggs, and sugar.

“They anticipate that Uganda will export goods to them during shortages, but then these goods are halted at the border, leading to confusion between the two countries,” the commissioner explained.

Kagumire also observed that while Kenya is thriving in business and competing with local entrepreneurs in Uganda, Uganda is finding it difficult to invest in Kenya.

On road user charges, Kagumire explained that Uganda is addressing these at a regional level, as there have been inconsistencies due to differing calculations.

The East African Community (EAC) Secretariat is currently in discussions to develop a uniform tariff to harmonize road user charges across the EAC member states.

Robert Mutebi, the Acting Commissioner General emphasized that URA aims to create value through collaboration with stakeholders.

“This approach has benefited us in numerous ways, as we learn from one another. I believe that this engagement will provide us with additional opportunities for success,” Mutebi said.

By Irene Kabakama