NAIROBI, Kenya – Travelers arriving in Kenya will now enjoy a significantly higher duty-free allowance, following a government decision to raise the threshold from Ksh.50,000 to Ksh.250,000.
The move, announced in a joint communiqué by key Cabinet Secretaries, is part of broader efforts to improve efficiency and passenger experience at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA).
The new threshold means that personal goods valued up to Ksh.250,000 will no longer attract customs duties, a relief for travelers who have long complained about the confiscation of their belongings upon arrival.
Beyond tax exemptions, the government has rolled out a series of reforms to streamline airport operations and enhance security.
Among them, the Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) will equip all customs officers with body-worn cameras from July 1 to boost transparency in screening procedures.
Sweeping Changes Under the Airport Charter
The reforms are part of the newly introduced Airport Charter, a framework designed to enhance efficiency and coordination among government agencies managing the country’s airports.
The changes, expected to take effect within seven days, include:
1. Security Enhancements: Kenya is adopting an advanced passenger information system to strengthen border security while ensuring smoother travel. Additionally, only bags flagged by security scanners will be opened in designated screening rooms to uphold traveler privacy.
2. Immigration Overhaul: Within 90 days, the number of immigration booths and officers at JKIA will be doubled, while e-Gates (electronic self-clearance gates) will be installed to speed up processing.
3. African Travelers’ Privileges: In a bid to position Kenya as a travel-friendly hub, all African citizens will be exempt from the Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) requirement. Additionally, multi-entry ETAs and expedited processing will be introduced to ease entry.
4. Accountability Measures: All personnel from agencies operating at JKIA, including the Kenya Airports Authority (KAA), KRA, Immigration, and law enforcement, will be required to wear uniforms and name tags within two weeks.
Upgrading Airport Infrastructure
The government has also committed to improving JKIA’s aging infrastructure and addressing concerns over outdated facilities.
Planned upgrades include: enhanced signage, better drainage, and improved water supply, modernized air-conditioning systems in terminals, expanded parking management and construction of covered walkways, and improved access roads to and from the airport.
Additionally, to bolster security, the government plans to acquire advanced 3D security scanning equipment in the next financial year.
The comprehensive reforms signal Kenya’s push to strengthen its position as a major aviation hub in Africa.
The implementation of these measures will be closely watched as authorities work to balance security, efficiency, and passenger convenience.
