TRUCK DRIVERS END STRIKE AT THE PORT OF MOMBASA FOLLOWING DISCUSSIONS BETWEEN KRA AND TRUCK DRIVERS REPRESENTATIVES.

Mombasa, Kenya — January 31, 2025
A breakthrough was reached following a high-stakes meeting between the Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) and representatives of truck drivers, including the Long Distance Drivers and Conductors Association (LoDDCA). The meeting aimed to address mounting grievances over illegal charges for Regional Electronic Cargo Tracking System (RECTS) services and inefficiencies at Mombasa Port, which had previously led to a drivers’ strike.

Key Resolutions Reached:

1. Illegal RECTS Charges Abolished: It was reaffirmed that drivers should not be charged for RECTS arming, which is a legally free service. KRA urged drivers to report any demands for such fees for disciplinary action.
2. Action Against Corrupt Officials: KRA has already taken disciplinary measures against four officials involved in the illegal collection of RECTS fees. Investigations are ongoing, and further action will be taken against any additional culprits.
3. Public Notice Commitment: KRA has pledged to issue an official public notice affirming that RECTS arming remains free while outlining firm measures to combat corruption.
4. Improved Port Operations: In the 24 hours following the meeting, over 1,000 trucks have been successfully armed with RECTS, signaling swift action toward restoring normalcy.
5. Ongoing Stakeholder Engagement: A structured, quarterly forum between KRA and truck drivers’ representatives will be established to foster continuous dialogue and ensure sustained reforms.

Industry Response
LoDDCA Chairman Elijah Nyaga expressed cautious optimism, commending the swift resolutions but emphasizing that drivers would closely monitor KRA’s compliance with the commitments. “Any failure to uphold these agreements will prompt renewed industrial action,” warned Nyaga.

The Kenya Long Distance Truck Drivers Union (Mombasa Branch) echoed LoDDCA’s sentiments, stating that the resolutions marked a step forward in protecting drivers’ rights and promoting efficient operations at the port.

Next Steps
LoDDCA and its partners remain committed to working with KRA to protect transporters’ rights and advocate for transparent operations within the sector. The association will continue to monitor the situation and encourage drivers to report any violations.

For further inquiries, LoDDCA can be reached via email at info@loddca.or.ke or by contacting their Chairman at 0724 830 563.

The official press release can be accessed here.

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