Kenya Ports Authority is leading key stakeholders in the on-going final negotiations of the Service Level Agreements (SLA) and Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) for export of fresh produce by sea.
Reportedly, the stakeholder’s negotiations forum kicked off in Nairobi and is expected to validate the findings from the final feasibility report for cool logistics infrastructure as well as validate the Final National Logistics and Freight Policy, Strategy, and Implementation Plan.
Among the envisaged benefits upon signing of the SLAs include Predictable service delivery and performance standards, reduced delays and perishability losses, which enhanced collaboration among stakeholders, stronger accountability and trust in cool logistics supply chain operations, with continuous stakeholder engagement and boosting Kenya’s competitiveness in horticultural exports.
The forum organized by the Kenya Ports Authority , Kenya Railways Corporation , Logistics Working Group and TradeMark Africa, is expected to yield the SLAs between key stakeholders namely Fresh Produce Exporters Association of Kenya (FPEAK),Packing Houses, Kenya Revenue Authority, Kenya Trade Network Agency(KENTRADE), Kenya Plant Health Inspectorate Services(KEPHIS), Agriculture and Food Authority-Horticulture Crop Directorate, Port Health, Kenya Transport Association(KTA) and Shipping Line.
The three-day forum was sponsored by Trademark Africa with funding from the European Union through the Business Export & Enhancement Programme (BEEP) and UKAid through Regional Economic Development for Investment and Trade (REDIT).
KPA Managing Director Captain William Ruto told the forum that the Authority has made key investments in reefer points, cargo handling equipment, systems and other port infrastructure to enhance capacity in handling fresh produce.
In a speech read on his behalf by the General Manager Corporate Research Planning & Compliance Ms. Evelyn Mwamure, the MD highlighted implementation of the Green Channel as a key efficiency measure for handling fresh produce exports.
He noted that the initiative aims at prioritizing clearance for compliant, pre-verified export consignments of fresh produce and allows eligible exporters to enjoy expedited clearance, reduced inspections, and seamless movement through the port.
According to him, The Green Channel is underpinned by trust, compliance, and performance and must be supported by all actors. Others who addressed the forum include Anne Nalo (Economic Advisor UKAID), Elma Adwa (Regional, Humanitarian and Refugee Team), Lilian Mwai Country Director Trademark Africa), Rodrigo ROMERO VAN CUTSEM-(European Union – Delegation of the European Union to Kenya) and Amarins Gerlofsma (Policy Officer Economic Affairs).