Nairobi: Busia One-Stop-Border-Post (OSBP) has urged the government to consider increasing the number of OSBPs with a view to serving the increasing number of human populations and goods crossing the two border posts of Busia and Malaba. Speaking to the National Assembly Committee on Regional Integration at Busia OSBP on Friday, Busia OSBP Chairman, John Kiilu, said that a lot of traffic is expected in five or more years to come.
According to Kenya News Agency, Kiilu recommended the domestication of the East African integration agenda to ensure people use the designated border points. He emphasized the need to strengthen stakeholder association and governance between Kenya and Uganda through capacity building. Furthermore, Kiilu called for technological advancements, especially on the scanners used to clear goods at the OSBP, highlighting the need for updates to remain in line with global standards. He mentioned the potential adoption of 3D scanners, despite their high costs, as technology rapidly evolves.
Kiilu stated that Busia OSBP successfully met its target of Sh900 million during the last financial year and has set a new goal of Sh1.5 billion for the current year. To achieve this, the OSBP is expanding its revenue sources and engaging with stakeholders. Plans are also in place to purchase drones to enhance border surveillance, aiming to prevent the passage of illegal goods and passengers. Kiilu noted that smuggling cases at the entry point are minimal due to constant management vigilance.
The facility currently has a truck parking area with a capacity of 100, and a 40-acre parcel of land has been earmarked for development to increase parking space for up to 2,000 trucks. Although construction of the Jumuiya market has not yet commenced, the project design and tendering process are underway.
The National Assembly Committee on Regional Integration, led by chairperson Irene Mayaka, conducted an inspection tour at the facility, assessing activities and identifying challenges faced by the OSBP. Mayaka mentioned that the committee engaged with the executive to work toward a lasting solution for these challenges.
