The Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) has unveiled changes to its cargo surveillance framework.
In a notice dated January 30, 2026, KRA announced a transition to a Multi-Vendor, User-Owned Electronic Cargo Tracking Seals model, further strengthening a system that links Kenya’s trade movements with the wider East African Community. The move is part of ongoing improvements to cargo monitoring under the Regional Electronic Cargo Tracking System (RECTS).
KRA said the move builds on its evolution from physical customs escorts to tamper-proof seals, multi-vendor seals, and ultimately RECTS—a web-based system integrated across the East African Community to monitor export and transit cargo using electronic seals.
According to KRA, RECTS has helped reduce cargo clearance times, enhance security, and improve accountability.
“To further enhance service delivery under RECTS, and in response to evolving business dynamics, technological advancements, and increased demand, KRA is aligning its cargo monitoring processes with current operational realities.”
The new model will apply to both dry cargo (e-seals) and wet cargo (e-fuel seals) and is aimed at addressing challenges such as seal availability and turnaround times, while aligning cargo monitoring with current business and technological realities.
KRA has invited stakeholders and electronic tracking seal vendors to participate in a public engagement process. A virtual sensitization meeting will be held on Wednesday, February 4, 2026.
Submissions, enquiries, or memoranda may be sent to cmu@kra.go.ke or delivered to the Commissioner of Customs and Border Control within two weeks. Further details are available on the KRA website.
