Kenya’s revenue authority is moving to introduce blockchain technology into customs administration as part of a wider modernization strategy aimed at reducing paperwork, improving transparency and accelerating cargo clearance at the Port of Mombasa and border entry points across the country.
The initiative represents one of the Kenyan government’s most extensive efforts to incorporate distributed ledger technology into public service operations. Authorities expect the proposed system to strengthen supply chain oversight, improve information sharing and address longstanding inefficiencies affecting cargo handling and customs procedures.
The proposed Trade Logistics Information Pipeline, or TLIP, is designed to use blockchain technology to provide real-time cargo tracking and establish a unified digital information system for importers, customs agencies, port operators and logistics companies.
The platform is expected to reduce dependence on physical documents while creating permanent digital records of cargo-related transactions. Because blockchain records are designed to be difficult to modify without leaving a trace, the technology could help limit unauthorized data changes, duplicated documentation and irregularities within the customs process.
Customs Modernization Supports Record Revenue Collection
The initiative follows a period of increased investment in customs technology by the Kenya Revenue Authority, or KRA. The agency reported collecting a record KSh988.8 billion in customs revenue during the 2025–2026 financial year and attributed part of the improvement to technology-led reforms that increased operational efficiency and strengthened compliance among importers and exporters.
KRA Commissioner for Customs and Border Control Lilian Nyawanda said the record performance reflected the effectiveness of the authority’s customs modernization program. She indicated that the agency remained focused on improving trade facilitation while maintaining its revenue collection objectives.
Unlike traditional centralized databases, blockchain systems distribute records across interconnected digital networks. Transactions are added to a shared ledger, allowing authorized participants to review information while maintaining a verifiable record of changes and activity.
Under the proposed framework, customs officers, shipping companies, freight forwarders, transportation providers and importers would be able to monitor shipments in real time. The system could reduce delays associated with repeated checks and fragmented verification procedures.
KRA expects the blockchain-based system to create an end-to-end record of cargo movement, improving accountability from ports of origin through final delivery destinations.
The authority has already introduced several digital customs initiatives, including the e-Customs mobile application, upgraded cargo management platforms and body-worn cameras for customs personnel.
Port Integration Seeks to Reduce Delays and Costs
The blockchain initiative comes as businesses continue to raise concerns about lengthy cargo clearance procedures and elevated logistics costs at the Port of Mombasa, East Africa’s busiest maritime gateway. Delays can increase storage expenses, raise transportation costs and disrupt regional supply chains.
KRA and the Kenya Ports Authority, or KPA, recently agreed to integrate their digital systems to reduce duplicated procedures and improve cargo handling. KRA Commissioner-General Adan Mohamed and KPA Managing Director Captain William Ruto indicated that stronger institutional coordination could improve efficiency and shorten shipment processing times.
The broader digital integration strategy could reduce operating costs, speed cargo movement and strengthen Kenya’s position as a regional trade and logistics hub.
However, specialists have noted that successful implementation will depend on strong cybersecurity protections, reliable internet infrastructure and effective integration among participating institutions. Importers, clearing agents and freight companies may also need to invest in employee training and digital systems to connect efficiently with the new platform.
Supporters maintain that the potential long-term benefits include greater transparency, reduced administrative burdens and more efficient trade operations. As international commerce increasingly adopts digital systems, Kenya’s customs modernization efforts signal a shift toward automated processes, digital authentication and more traceable cargo networks.
