Kenyan transporters have raised concerns over recent security challenges along the vital Nimule–Juba Highway, a key trade corridor that connects the Port of Mombasa to South Sudan. This route plays a critical role in supporting regional trade, with long-haul trucks delivering essential goods, including humanitarian aid, fuel, and construction materials.
In response to reported incidents along the corridor, the Kenya Transporters Association (KTA) has issued a precautionary advisory recommending that trucks complete their movements by 4 pm to ensure driver safety.
“Our priority is to safeguard the lives of drivers and protect cargo. We have advised early parking at secure rest points along the route as a temporary safety measure,” said KTA Chairperson Newton Wang’oo.
This advisory follows discussions between Kenyan transporters and South Sudanese authorities aimed at strengthening existing security measures. Both parties are committed to ensuring that trade flows remain uninterrupted while prioritizing the welfare of all drivers.
The Long-Distance Drivers and Conductors Association (LoDDCA) also emphasized the need for enhanced safety coordination, including improved visibility along road stretches and additional patrol support.
“Our call is for stronger collaboration and continuous dialogue among stakeholders to ensure safety for everyone along this vital trade route,” LoDDCA noted in a statement.
Security experts highlight that regional trade routes often face challenges due to vast distances and difficult terrain. In response, proposals have been put forward to establish secure parking zones, coordinated patrols, and intelligence-sharing initiatives between South Sudan and its trade partners to ensure swift incident responses and overall safety enhancement.
Wang’oo welcomed ongoing efforts by South Sudanese officials to engage regional partners, stating:
“This is a shared corridor that supports trade and livelihoods across our region. Strengthening security here is a collective responsibility, and we appreciate the measures already being implemented.”
The Nimule–Juba Highway carries about 14% of all transit cargo through the Port of Mombasa—over one million tons annually—serving both commercial and humanitarian needs. Ensuring its safety is therefore crucial for the East African trade network.
Stakeholders have also noted the importance of exploring alternative routes and infrastructure improvements, such as the Nadapal–Kapoeta Road, which could complement existing corridors in the future.
KTA has encouraged all drivers to remain vigilant, follow security advisories, and report any incidents promptly.
“We value the cooperation of South Sudanese authorities and our regional partners as we work together to ensure this trade lifeline remains secure and efficient,” Wang’oo added.
The Federation of East African Freight Forwarders Associations (FEAFFA), the regional apex body for clearing and forwarding agents, has urged all stakeholders along the Northern Corridor to jointly review and address the concerns raised by the Kenya Transporters Association (KTA). FEAFFA emphasized that ensuring security and efficiency along the corridor is critical to maintaining seamless trade flows and avoiding a potential rise in cargo transport costs.
“The Nimule–Juba Highway remains a vital lifeline for regional commerce and humanitarian supplies. We encourage constructive dialogue and collaborative measures among governments, transporters, and security agencies to ensure that trade continues safely and cost-effectively,” said Mr. Charles Mwebembezi, President of FEAFFA.
The organization reaffirmed its commitment to working closely with South Sudanese authorities, the East African Community (EAC), and other partners to find sustainable solutions that enhance safety, protect drivers, and preserve the competitiveness of the Northern Corridor.
This article was published by Githua Kihara, an editorial consultant for FEAFFA’s Freight Logistics Magazine. For any inquiries, please contact us via email at editorial@feaffa.com or freightlogistics@feaffa.com, or reach out to Andrew Onionga directly at onionga@feaffa.com / +254733780240.
