Cite short notice even as they question nuclear authority capacity, cost implications Importers and exporters in the country now want the new directive on mandatory screening of all cargo for nuclear and radioactive materials pushed to July. They have cited short-notice even as they question the Kenya Nuclear Regulatory Authority (KNRA)’s capacity to screen containers specifically at the Port of Mombasa, whose current annual throughput is at 2.2 million containers, 4.5 metric million tonnes, and growing.
Traders are also concerned that government agencies are coming up with numerous charges, albeit duplicating roles and fees, which are adding to the cost of trade, making Mombasa uncompetitive and potentially leading to the loss of business to Dar es Salaam. In a notice to importers, exporters and licensed cargo agents that went public on April 20, KNRA said all cargo entering or exiting the county’s ports of entry must undergo specialised screening, effective May 1.
This is to detect and prevent illicit trafficking of special nuclear and other radioactive materials. Containerised cargo must pass through monitors stationed as strategic points, such as the Mombasa Port and Inland Container Depots. “These monitors provide non-intrusive, high-sensitivity detection of gamma and neutron radiation.
In a letter to KNRA director general James Keter, seen by the Star, SCEA says members have raised several concerns, among them being the implementation start date of May 1, which is less than 12 days from public notice. This, it says is less that 30 days which would allow adequate preparation.
There are also concerns over payment procedures and details to allow compliance. It is not clear how much is to be paid per container, whether payment will be made at the import declaration (IDF) level or during clearance, and on which platform.