Malaba Border Post Revenue Hits Sh11.04 Billion, Exceeding Targets with 643% Growth Over 12 Years

The Malaba One Stop Border Post (OSBP) recorded a significant revenue increase, collecting Sh11.04 billion in the 2025/2026 financial year. This figure represents a 643.5 percent rise from the Sh1.49 billion collected in 2014/2015, surpassing the set target of Sh10.62 billion by 4 percent.

During a meeting with the National Assembly’s Select Committee on Regional Integration, Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) officials highlighted the steady growth in collections at Malaba and Busia border posts, with Busia's revenue rising from Sh900 million to Sh1.4 billion in the past year alone.

Factors Driving Growth

• Increased Trade Volumes: Malaba OSBP handles about 2,200 trucks daily, with 600 entering Kenya and 1,600 crossing into Uganda.
• Improved Infrastructure: Installations such as solar power, a drive-through scanner, and a rehabilitated borehole have enhanced operations and customer experience.
• Stakeholder Engagement: Continuous collaboration with various agencies has streamlined cargo clearance and border processes.

Station Manager Roderick Mulei noted that approximately 1,000 people cross the border daily, emphasizing the post's critical role in regional trade and movement.

Challenges and Recommendations

Despite progress, Mulei identified infrastructure gaps that need urgent attention:

• Completion of the road loop connecting to Uganda to ease truck movement.
• Expansion of the exit bridge and enlargement of the holding yard to reduce congestion and improve security.
• Provision of an electricity substation to supplement solar power for uninterrupted supply.
• Establishment of a banking hall within the OSBP and upgrading vehicle conditions.
• Adoption of East African Community Customs Union protocols by member states to harmonize operations.

The committee also raised concerns about limited parking, smuggling, and cross-border crime, urging EAC partner states to harmonize tax rates and increase border points to manage rising traffic efficiently.

Additional Developments

Officials briefed the committee on ongoing projects such as the Jumuia Market, aimed at boosting cross-border trade among East African traders. Although site acquisition and design preparations are underway, construction has yet to begin.

The committee encouraged full adoption of the e-customs system to enhance revenue collection and border security, including the use of advanced scanning equipment and drones for surveillance.

Overall, the inspection sought to identify ways to strengthen border operations, improve service delivery, and support free movement of goods and people within the East African Community.