SUAM, Kenya – The Kenyan government is set to transform the Suam Point of Entry/Exit into a state-of-the-art One-Stop Border Post (OSBP) to streamline cross-border operations and enhance trade with Uganda.
This upgrade aims to facilitate seamless collaboration between border management officers from both nations, thereby accelerating the clearance process for people and vehicles.
Deputy President Kithure Kindiki visited the Suam border on Tuesday to assess the progress of the project, highlighting its pivotal role in strengthening the trade partnership between Kenya and Uganda.
“Uganda is not just a neighboring country; it is a critical trading partner,” remarked DP Kindiki.
The joint initiative between Kenya and Uganda also encompasses the expansion of the 45-kilometer Suam-Kitale road and the construction of a modern market in Kitale.
These developments are expected to bolster economic activities in the region.
According to the Deputy President, significant advancements have been made on the Ugandan side, and the Kenyan government is eager to expedite its segment to enable the two heads of state to commission the project.
“We came to evaluate the progress on our side. Much has been done, but there are areas that still require attention, including the completion of a screening area on the Ugandan side for vehicles entering from Kenya,” DP Kindiki noted.
Accompanied by Principal Secretary for Internal Security and National Administration, Dr. Raymond Omolo, and other senior officials, DP Kindiki reaffirmed the government’s commitment to timely completion of the project.
He also issued a strong warning to contractors who fail to deliver after receiving public funds.
“There are contractors who have been paid by the government to implement various projects across Kenya. Our message is clear: it will no longer be acceptable for anyone to pocket public funds and delay government projects. If you’ve been paid, deliver on time. No excuses,” he asserted.
The OSBP and its accompanying infrastructure are anticipated to boost trade, reduce delays, and enhance the efficiency of border operations, further cementing the economic ties between Kenya and Uganda.
This upgrade aims to facilitate seamless collaboration between border management officers from both nations, thereby accelerating the clearance process for people and vehicles.
Deputy President Kithure Kindiki visited the Suam border on Tuesday to assess the progress of the project, highlighting its pivotal role in strengthening the trade partnership between Kenya and Uganda.
“Uganda is not just a neighboring country; it is a critical trading partner,” remarked DP Kindiki.
The joint initiative between Kenya and Uganda also encompasses the expansion of the 45-kilometer Suam-Kitale road and the construction of a modern market in Kitale.
These developments are expected to bolster economic activities in the region.
According to the Deputy President, significant advancements have been made on the Ugandan side, and the Kenyan government is eager to expedite its segment to enable the two heads of state to commission the project.
“We came to evaluate the progress on our side. Much has been done, but there are areas that still require attention, including the completion of a screening area on the Ugandan side for vehicles entering from Kenya,” DP Kindiki noted.
Accompanied by Principal Secretary for Internal Security and National Administration, Dr. Raymond Omolo, and other senior officials, DP Kindiki reaffirmed the government’s commitment to timely completion of the project.
He also issued a strong warning to contractors who fail to deliver after receiving public funds.
“There are contractors who have been paid by the government to implement various projects across Kenya. Our message is clear: it will no longer be acceptable for anyone to pocket public funds and delay government projects. If you’ve been paid, deliver on time. No excuses,” he asserted.
The OSBP and its accompanying infrastructure are anticipated to boost trade, reduce delays, and enhance the efficiency of border operations, further cementing the economic ties between Kenya and Uganda.
