Nairobi: The Kenya International Freight and Warehousing Association (KIFWA) has introduced a Digital Marine Cargo Insurance (DMCI) platform in collaboration with prominent insurance firms. This initiative aims to streamline cargo clearance and ensure compliance with mandatory marine cargo insurance requirements that were enforced from July 1.
According to Kenya News Agency, the platform was developed with the support of APA Insurance, CIC Insurance Group, Old Mutual General Insurance, Pacis Insurance, Dynamique, and eCitizen. It is set to digitize the issuance of marine cargo insurance certificates, simplify payment processes, and enhance efficiency throughout the import and logistics value chain.
During the launch event in Nairobi, KIFWA National Chairman Fredrick Aloo highlighted the platform’s role in simplifying compliance with new insurance regulations while improving transparency, efficiency, and service delivery in cargo clearance. He noted that the system integrates digital payment channels, includ
ing eCitizen, the Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA), M-Pesa, and other financial institutions, facilitating faster processing of marine cargo insurance requirements.
Aloo stated, “The platform will benefit importers, clearing and forwarding agents, and the wider logistics industry by simplifying the issuance of marine cargo insurance certificates, regulatory payments, cargo clearance, and customer support.”
He further detailed that the platform provides real-time issuance and verification of insurance certificates, seamless integration with government systems like Pesaflow, automated cargo processing, and nationwide customer support and training for clearing agents.
Old Mutual General Insurance Managing Director Japheth Ogalloh reported that the insurance partners have already conducted sensitization and training programs for industry stakeholders in Nairobi, Mombasa, Malaba, Busia, Namanga, and Isebania to prepare users for the transition. He mentioned that the training program will continue over the next 12
months to offer technical support and ensure users are well-versed with the new system.
Ogalloh emphasized, “The training equips members with practical skills on accessing the DMCI platform, issuing clearance certificates, paying premiums through the available payment channels, and complying with customs clearance procedures.”
He reassured that insurers are committed to supporting stakeholders during the implementation period through technical assistance and close collaboration with partners. Ogalloh encouraged importers and clearing agents to adopt the platform to ensure uninterrupted cargo clearance and compliance with the mandatory marine cargo insurance regulations.
The Digital Marine Cargo Insurance platform is part of the government’s comprehensive efforts to digitize trade facilitation, improve regulatory compliance, reduce cargo processing delays, and enhance efficiency in Kenya’s import and logistics sector.
