Post: KRA Assures Seamless Services, Following Occasional Delays at Eldoret Depot

Eldoret: The Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) has assured demonstrating stakeholders who camped outside the Eldoret Depot, alleging delays in service delivery by the Authority, that KRA is keen to ensure seamless services.According to Kenya News Agency, KRA clarified that the allegations are untrue and misleading, noting that Tuesday morning's temporary delays were due to a routine KPC system rollover at the depot that affected the issuance of Bills of Lading (BOLs) until around midday."This was unrelated to KRA's processing system and has since been resolved and normal operations have resumed," read a statement from KRA Chief Manager, Customs and Border Control, Rift Valley Region, Mr. Abdi Malik. He added that in a bid to enhance efficiency at the depot, KRA has implemented a fully paperless processing system at KPC Eldoret and other depots countrywide.KRA explained that this innovation, supported by the recent integration of KRA and Kenya Pipeline Company (KPC) systems, has replaced the manual folder- based clearance with a streamlined online process. Under the new system, truck clearance data is submitted via a shared spreadsheet by KPC and Oil Marketing Companies (OMCs) through their agents.KRA officers then process and release the trucks digitally and provide feedback on the same platform. The benefits of the transformation include real-time tracking of each truck's processing stage, enabling OMCs to know the exact status and clearance timelines; transparent queuing that eliminates biased processing of trucks and ensures fairness. Improved accountability is also achieved, as all stakeholders can see which trucks are loaded but not yet cleared.The innovation has also reduced operational costs for OMCs and agents, who no longer need to engage additional personnel for paperwork and physical follow-ups. Additionally, it has facilitated live data reporting on truck loadings, eliminating the need for manual data entry.The Authority further stated that, despite the significant benefits, the transition ha s faced resistance from some stakeholders who previously facilitated manual processing, a role now no longer necessary with the new system. KRA reaffirmed its commitment to working collaboratively with all stakeholders to ensure smooth operations at the depot and to address genuine concerns as they arise.