[The Sh billion Ultra-modern Inland Contain Depot (ICD) launched today (Saturday 16th) by president Uhuru Kenyatta. Photo/KBC]
President Uhuru Kenyatta today launched an ultra-modern inland container depot (ICD) upgraded at a cost of Kshs 22 billion and offered 50 percent discount to exporters who will use the facility.
President Kenyatta also directed the Transport and Infrastructure Ministry to ensure that the 22 agencies, which are members of the Mombasa Port Charter, meet their obligations in addressing all the logistical hurdles to satisfy the needs of the private sector.
The 22 agencies include Kenya Revenue Authority, Kenya Ports Authority, Kenya Railways Corporation, Kenya National Highways Authority, Kenya Pipeline Company Limited, Kenya Trade Network Agency, Kenya Maritime Authority, Kenya National Police Service and the Kenya Bureau of Standards among others.
“To support our exporters, both local and regional, we will offer 50 percent discount for transporting goods from the Nairobi Inland Container Depot and the Port of Mombasa,” President Kenyatta said.
President Kenyatta spoke on Saturday during the launch of the upgraded depot at Embakasi in Nairobi.
“The high speed, high capacity, and efficient Standard Gauge Railway network will serve as an important link between the Port of Mombasa and the Inland Container Depot,” the President said.
With the upgraded inland container depot and the SGR, President Kenyatta expressed confidence that there will be a seamless clearance, evacuation, and movement of cargo that will enhance operations of the shippers, freight forwarders and other transport players in the sector.