Uganda goods caught up in strike

Caught up. Uganda-bound trucks are caught up in a strike delaying the delivery of goods to the country.

Uganda Revenue Authority is already feeling the pinch after transporters in Kenya went on strike over a High Court decision to reinstate the “per axle load” limit.

The decision reached last month gives powers to Kenya National Highway Authority to enforce ‘per axle load’ limit rather than the gross vehicle weight which is currently in use.

Since last week URA has been registering a drop in the number of Uganda-bound trucks.

In recent months URA has been registering revenue shortfalls because of interruptions, which delay the collection of international trade revenues.
And just like the cash bond scandal, the use of the “per axle load” limit that has now culminated into a strike is likely to paralyze movement of goods from Mombasa Port to Uganda.

“We are aware about this. And we are worried because this is happening at a time when we should be seeing improved activities (trade),” the commissioner customs, Richard Kamajugo said on Tuesday.
He said: “Since last week there has been a noticeable drop from about 700 trucks to about 400 now.”

Meanwhile, the Kampala City Traders Association is opposed to the reinstatement of the programme saying the method is not only improper but also delays traffic.

A statement from Kenya Transporters Association, instructed all members to stop loading cargo from Mombasa Port until the government reverts to the axle load system.

“We regret to inform the general public and members that with immediate effect, all road transporters have suspended and withdrawn transport services,” reads the statement.
iladu@ug.nationmedia.com