Kisumu Port has recorded a major financial turnaround, with revenue collections surging to Sh107 million in the 2024-25 financial year a more than threefold increase from Sh30 million the previous year. The impressive growth has been attributed to tighter anti-smuggling measures, enhanced surveillance, and improved marine operations led by the Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA).
According to Dominic Kengara, Chief Manager of Customs in the Western Region, KRA’s Marine Unit has stepped up patrols across Kenya’s territorial waters on Lake Victoria, sealing revenue loopholes and curbing illegal trade. “We’ve greatly reduced illegal cross-border trade while promoting legitimate commerce through proper customs channels,” Kengara said during a media briefing at the Kisumu Port.
In the 2023-24 financial year, the Marine Unit intercepted uncustomed goods worth Sh3.19 million and recovered Sh1.6 million in revenue from enforcement operations targeting smugglers using unauthorized lake routes.
Among the most commonly smuggled goods are illicit liquor, timber, livestock, and sugar, often moved by small-scale traders trying to bypass customs procedures. However, KRA’s enhanced vigilance and collaboration with security agencies have made it increasingly difficult for smugglers to exploit lake routes linking Kenya, Uganda, and Tanzania.
Kengara also credited the revitalisation of Kisumu Port as a key driver of rising trade volumes in the region. Modernized infrastructure, streamlined clearance systems, and efficient cargo handling have attracted more legitimate traders, boosting tax compliance and customs collections.
With continued enforcement and port improvements, KRA expects Kisumu to remain a vital trade hub for East Africa’s lake region, fostering lawful commerce while deterring smuggling and other illicit activities.
