MOMBASA, Kenya – The Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) has launched a state-of-the-art marine patrol vessel, KRA 009, as part of its intensified efforts to strengthen maritime border security and curb illicit trade activities along the Indian Ocean.
The vessel, unveiled on Monday at the Port of Mombasa, is a significant addition to KRA’s growing marine unit, aimed at enhancing the surveillance and enforcement capabilities of the authority.
KRA 009 is equipped with modern navigation, communication, and interception systems, designed to endure harsh maritime conditions while swiftly responding to suspicious activities at sea.
This investment is part of the government’s broader national security strategy to protect Kenya’s borders and ensure that maritime corridors remain safe and law-abiding routes for legitimate trade.
KRA Commissioner General Humphrey Wattanga described the new vessel as a “milestone” in the authority’s multi-agency approach to border security and the fight against illicit trade.
He emphasized that this initiative would significantly enhance KRA’s ability to detect and intercept contraband goods, narcotics, counterfeit products, and even weapons being smuggled through Kenya’s vast and porous maritime borders.
“KRA 009 is not just a vessel; it is a symbol of our unwavering resolve to defend our borders, ensure the safety of our people, and promote fair trade,” Wattanga said during the launch. “Illicit trade remains a persistent challenge that undermines legitimate businesses, erodes public revenue, and endangers the lives of Kenyans.”
The launch comes at a time when illicit trade continues to threaten the country’s economy and public health.
Through coordinated efforts with other security agencies, KRA has employed various strategies such as real-time data sharing, advanced risk analysis, installation of scanners at key border points, and joint patrols to curb this illegal activity.
In recognizing the vulnerabilities along Kenya’s coastline, particularly the East African seaboard, Wattanga stressed the importance of reinforcing KRA’s marine unit to enhance its capacity to detect and deter maritime crime.
The new patrol boat will allow the authority to better safeguard Kenya’s marine corridors, which are vital for trade in the region.
KRA’s Commissioner for Customs and Border Control, Lilian Nyawanda, echoed Wattanga’s sentiments, highlighting the critical role of effective marine surveillance in modern border control.
She noted that illicit trade takes many forms, including smuggling, counterfeiting, and the sale of substandard goods, all of which have detrimental effects on Kenya’s revenue and public health.
“Our efforts, such as the recent enforcement statistics from the Port of Mombasa, show that we are making progress. Between October and December 2024, KRA Customs officers recorded over 1,164 enforcement offenses, recovering more than Ksh 491 million in taxes and Ksh 77 million in penalties and fines,” Nyawanda said. “These results are a direct outcome of investments in infrastructure, technology, and training, particularly for our marine unit.”
The marine unit operates under the customs and border control department, tasked with patrolling territorial waters, conducting searches, and arresting suspects involved in smuggling activities.
It works closely with other national security agencies, including the Kenya Coast Guard Service and the Kenya Navy.
Nyawanda emphasized that the success of these efforts depends on continued collaboration with other security agencies and the public.
“Illicit trade thrives where controls are weak. With this new patrol boat, we are sending a clear message that KRA will not relent in securing Kenya’s borders,” she stated. “We call on all stakeholders and the public to support our mission by sharing timely information and cooperating with our efforts.”
The introduction of KRA 009 marks a new chapter in Kenya’s fight against maritime illicit trade, offering a clear indication that the government is committed to improving border security and safeguarding the country’s economic well-being.
