Jomvu Member of Parliament Badi Twalib has called for stronger cooperation between the Kenya Ports Authority (KPA) and the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) to expand trade and strengthen Kenya’s position as a logistics hub for Central Africa.
Twalib said improved relations between Kenya and the DRC, coupled with major investments in transport infrastructure, had enhanced cross-border trade and created opportunities for businesses in the region.
He spoke when he hosted DRC Consul General Kambale Mukokoma at his offices in Jomvu, Mombasa, where they discussed ways of deepening economic ties between the two countries.
“The gateway to East and Central Africa begins at KPA. Infrastructure development, especially the road network from the Port through Jomvu and Mariakani to the hinterland, has been pivotal in improving turnaround times for drivers and traders,” Twalib said.
He said the government’s investment in roads and port infrastructure had made the Port of Mombasa an important gateway for goods destined for Central Africa.
Twalib noted that despite insecurity in Goma, efforts were underway to establish KPA offices in the region to facilitate trade and strengthen the authority’s presence in the DRC.
He urged the governments of Kenya and the DRC to expedite efforts to address challenges affecting the establishment of the offices, saying improved cooperation would increase trade volumes and create wealth for both countries.
“Our two nations need to come up with a clear methodology to solve the problems in Goma so that we can establish our presence in the region. This move will increase trade volumes and, in the long run, create wealth for both countries,” he said.
Twalib said the expansion of the Port of Mombasa, commissioning of the Shimoni Port and full operationalisation of the Port of Lamu had positioned Kenya to become a leading shipping and logistics hub on the continent.
He urged the DRC to make greater use of Kenyan ports to facilitate trade and tap into the growing economic opportunities created by the two countries’ cooperation.
“As we move towards greater business prospects in the region, I urge the DRC to take advantage of our ports, which are proving to be ports of choice for the region and Africa,” Twalib said.
Mukokoma said Kenya was on course to becoming a continental leader in logistics and ease of doing business.
He said the DRC had substantial business interests in Kenya, particularly through the Port of Mombasa, which he noted was benefiting from increased cooperation between the two countries.
Mukokoma also commended Kenya for supporting the welfare of DRC citizens and business people residing in the country, saying this had strengthened relations between the two nations and promoted the ideals of the East African Community (EAC).
“Our drivers and citizens have been well taken care of, and we hope the symbiotic relationship we have cultivated will continue,” Mukokoma said.
The Consul General had paid a courtesy visit to Twalib to condole with him following the death of his personal secretary, Beatrice Wache Mwazighe.
By Andrew Hinga
