Mbale: Kenya and Uganda have resolved to eliminate all existing non-tariff barriers hindering trade between the two countries. Trade ministers Lee Kinyanjui of Kenya and his Ugandan counterpart, Gen. Wilson Mbasu, met in Mbale, Eastern Uganda, to address these issues. They agreed to fully align trade-related commitments with the East African Community (EAC) treaty and related protocols.
According to Kenya News Agency, the ministers issued a joint communiqu© announcing their commitment to removing trade barriers and facilitating the movement of goods and people across their borders. This decision follows a directive from Kenyan President Dr. William Samoei Ruto and Ugandan President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni during their bilateral engagement in Nairobi, Kenya, held from July 30 to 31, 2025.
The two leaders instructed the trade ministers to urgently convene and address the trade barriers impasse. Consequently, the ministers agreed to clear congestion at key cross-border points, including Malaba, Busia, Suam, and Lwakhakha, to ensure a seamless flow of goods, services, and people.
Minister Kinyanjui emphasized the seriousness of the complaints affecting business at the border points and the commitment to restoring normalcy. He warned that officers responsible for cargo clearance who fail to perform efficiently would face severe consequences. Kinyanjui also highlighted the issue of cargo delays, stating that it is unacceptable for it to take 2-3 days for cargo from Kenya to cross the border.
Ugandan Trade Minister Gen. Wilson Mbasu reiterated the importance of facilitating the quick movement of goods, services, and people to boost the region's economy. He stressed the need for on-the-spot assessments at border points to ensure they align with EAC and economic integration goals. Mbasu affirmed the necessity of eliminating barriers that restrict trade.
The meeting was also attended by Principal Secretaries Dr. Juma Mukhwana (Industry) and Regina Ombam (Trade), who supported the ministers' efforts to enhance regional economic cooperation.