The Administration and Internal Security Committee today conducted an inspection visit to the Malaba Border Post, where officials raised urgent concerns over infrastructure deficiencies and security challenges affecting operations at the busy crossing point.
The officials who included the Director, Deputy County Commissioner, and representatives from the Kenya Revenue Authority, spoke in unison on the pressing need for improvements, citing the strain placed on existing facilities by high traffic volumes.
In his remarks, the Director highlighted the inadequacy of the current road network, noting that the carriageway is too narrow to accommodate the large number of trailers that transit through the border daily. This, he said, contributes to congestion and delays in cargo clearance.
Concerns were also raised regarding the capacity of the existing warehouse. One official observed that the facility appears to have been constructed without anticipating the current volume of cargo, resulting in significant operational challenges.
The area MP and Committee Member, Hon. Oku Kaunya, underscored the strategic importance of Malaba Border, describing it as the second-largest entry point in the country, handling approximately 73 percent of cargo. He emphasized the urgent need to upgrade infrastructure, including expanding the road into a dual carriageway to enhance efficiency and ease congestion.
Hon. Kaunya further proposed the elevation of Malaba to a passport issuance centre, citing the vast and busy nature of the border. He also raised concerns over security infrastructure, noting that although plans for a new police station exist, progress has stalled despite land being available.
He urged the Committee to fast-track the project, stating that it would significantly bolster security in the area.
Additional issues highlighted during the meeting included frequent power outages, inadequate transport for officers, insufficient/ poor housing, and the prevalence of fraudulent documentation.
The Director in charge of Immigration presented evidence of attempted forgery, revealing a case where an individual tried to replicate his official security stamp to fraudulently facilitate cargo clearance, an incident that underscores the growing sophistication of cross-border crime.
The Committee, led by Hon. Col. (Rtd.) Dido Rasso, reaffirmed its commitment to addressing the challenges raised and ensuring that Malaba Border is equipped to effectively serve its critical role in regional trade and security.
By Anthony Solly
