(MOMBASA / JUBA) – South Sudan has asked Kenya to extend the period allowed for cargo storage at the Port of Mombasa, saying the current grace period of fifteen days is too short for traders transporting goods to Juba. The request was made by South Sudan’s Minister of Transport, Rezi Zakaria Hassan, during discussions in Mombasa with Kenyan port officials.
The minister said traders are facing high transport and clearance expenses because delays along the main transport route make it difficult for cargo to reach South Sudan within the current storage timeframe. He said that extending the grace period would support business growth, reduce penalties, and encourage more traders to continue using Mombasa as the main gateway for imports into South Sudan.
South Sudan is the second largest user of the Port of Mombasa after Uganda. Most imports to South Sudan travel by road from Mombasa through Kenya and Uganda before reaching border entry points and then Juba. The transport corridor is long and often affected by security alerts, road damage, and slow processing at checkpoints.
Minister Hassan said the request is being considered in ongoing talks involving the Kenya Ports Authority and officials responsible for regional transit trade. He said the appeal also relates to the Democratic Republic of Congo, which faces similar logistical challenges.
The South Sudan business community in Mombasa, represented by chairperson Emmanuel Kachoul, said cargo volumes between the two countries have grown in the past two years, supported by wider trade cooperation efforts. Kachoul said there is still a need for better awareness among traders on container management and customs rules, to avoid unnecessary storage charges or delays.
He added that many traders misunderstand container handling requirements, assuming containers belong to cargo owners, which can lead to disputes or delays when empty containers are not returned in time. He said training and sensitisation workshops are being planned in Juba to improve understanding of cargo procedures.
A senior representative from the Northern Corridor transit agencies confirmed that discussions are underway to evaluate special concessions for South Sudan and Congo, considering the longer distances and security concerns along transport routes. The official said previous meetings included the South Sudan ambassador and revenue authority officials, who stressed the importance of improving the ease of doing business for traders.
South Sudan depends heavily on imports for commodities, construction materials, machinery, fuel and foodstuffs. Any increase in transport or port costs affects consumer prices in South Sudanese markets.
Current Port Storage Grace Period
| Item | Current Status | Proposed Adjustment (Requested) |
|---|---|---|
| Free Storage Period at Port of Mombasa | 15 days | Extension to allow additional days before storage fees apply |
| Main Users Affected | South Sudan and Congo traders | Special consideration requested for both countries |
| Reason for Request | Distance, transport delays, security challenges | Reduce penalties and support trade flow |
Both Kenya and South Sudan have said they want trade to grow, and discussions on the storage period are expected to continue. No final decision has yet been announced.
If approved, the change would be expected to lower transport costs, support import businesses, and stabilise prices of essential goods in South Sudanese markets.
