President William Ruto’s July 2023 directive limiting weighbridge checks for transit trucks to just the points of entry and exit, primarily Mariakani near Mombasa port and Malaba border post, has dramatically improved cargo movement along Kenya’s Northern Corridor, according to officials at the Athi River weighbridge.
During Thursday’s media tour, Peter Njoroge, the Danka Africa (K) Ltd contractor overseeing operations for the Kenya National Highways Authority (KeNHA), hailed the policy as a game-changer.
“Transit trucks now bypass internal stations, slashing journey times from Mombasa to Malaba by up to 48 hours in some cases,” he said. “We’ve seen a surge in compliance at the designated points”.
The directive, aimed at dismantling non-tariff barriers to boost intra-East African Community trade, confines weighing to Mariakani for inbound cargo and border exits for inbound.
KeNHA data shows average transit speeds have risen 20-30 per cent, reducing fuel costs and spoilage for perishable goods.
From the drivers’ perspective, the changes have been largely welcomed. Long-haul operator James Mutua, interviewed at the site, said: “Eradication of endless stops at every weighbridge has improved travel time along the northern corridor.
“I can now complete a round trip in three days instead of five, meaning more earnings and less fatigue.” Fellow driver Hassan echoed this, noting reduced police harassment: “It’s safer and less stressful without constant interruptions.”
However, some drivers raised concerns about unintended consequences. “With fewer checks, some unscrupulous operators overload to cut costs, risking accidents on steep sections,” Mutua warned.
KeNHA acknowledges this, pledging random mobile patrols to curb evasion. Danka has said the trucks pass through several virtual weighbridge checks and will be fined at the point of exit.
Overall, the directive has enhanced efficiency, but sustained monitoring is key to balancing speed with safety, officials say.
