Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) marine officers have intercepted and recovered illicit and uncustomed goods valued at Ksh3.9 million during operations on Lake Victoria. The crackdown, which is part of KRA’s intensified surveillance on inland water routes, also resulted in the recovery of Ksh1.6 million in revenue linked to small-scale traders attempting to smuggle goods through various lake routes.
Speaking during a media familiarisation session at the Kisumu Port, KRA Customs Chief Manager Dominic Kengara highlighted that the Marine Unit has significantly strengthened its operations in recent years to curb illicit trade across lake borders.
“Our operations have greatly contributed to reducing illegal cross-border trade while promoting legitimate commerce through proper customs channels,” Kengara stated.
According to Kengara, the most commonly smuggled goods through Lake Victoria include illicit liquor, timber, livestock, and sugar. He added that heightened vigilance has helped prevent the entry of narcotic drugs, weapons, and other prohibited items into Kenya.
The Customs Manager also noted that the reopening and expansion of the Kisumu Port have revitalised regional trade and improved revenue collection. In the 2024/2025 financial year, the KRA collected Ksh107 million at the Kisumu Port, up from Ksh30 million in the previous year.
Kengara revealed that sugar imports from Tanzania and Uganda remain the main revenue driver, with approximately 4,600 metric tonnes imported between May and August 2025, generating over Ksh170 million in duties and taxes.
He further noted that exports through Kisumu Port have also increased, with frequent consignments of petroleum products, ceramic tiles, wheat, and fertiliser. The marine clearance process has helped decongest the Busia and Malaba One Stop Border Posts, with one vessel of petroleum products equating to 135 road tankers.
