Transport Cabinet Secretary (CS) James Macharia has been summoned to appear before the National Assembly Transport Committee to answer to questions relating to the Standard Gauge Railway (SGR).

Do you have a lead on a newsworthy story? Share news tips with us here at Hivisasa!

Macharia is on Thursday expected to shed more light on a government directive that all imported cargo be ferried from the port of Mombasa to Nairobi through the rail.

The Kenya Ports Authority (KPA) and Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) on Friday said cargo will henceforth be cleared at the Inland Container Deport (ICD) in Nairobi before leaving for their destinations.

"All imported cargo for delivery to Nairobi and hinterland shall be conveyed by SGR and cleared at the Inland Container Depot (ICD) in Nairobi while all cargo intended for Mombasa and its environs shall be cleared at the port of Mombasa," read the statement.

Deputy National Assembly Speaker Moses Cheboi on Tuesday ordered the CS to appear before the committee, following complains from Coast politicians, who have argued that the move will affect hauliers, freighters and other involved entities.

"I order that the CS appears before the Transport committee on Thursday this week,” Cheboi said as quoted by Nation.

Among the politicians opposed to the new directive is Mvita MP Abdulswamad Sharif Nassir.