The Uganda Revenue Authority (URA) has commissioned a new bonded warehouse at the Malaba border to tackle cargo congestion, expedite clearance, and boost revenue collection.
Built by Tan Investments, the facility can accommodate up to 1,000 trucks and is expected to ease delays that have long plagued cargo transportation along the Malaba-Kampala highway.
The warehouse is part of URA’s broader strategy to improve trade efficiency and reduce logistical bottlenecks at Uganda’s busiest border crossing.
Naiya Tana, Managing Director of Tan Investments ICD Bond, highlighted the warehouse’s role in consolidating cargo and facilitating smoother verification and tax compliance.
"We built this hub to consolidate cargo, facilitate government verification, and ensure taxes are paid, thereby streamlining the process of moving goods in and out of the country," he said.
URA officials believe the facility will not only decongest the border but also enhance the efficiency of Uganda’s entire trade network.
"With such a facility in place, vehicles that previously had to travel to Kampala for clearance can now be processed here. This means they will proceed directly to their destinations, reducing congestion," said James Maliizi, URA’s Assistant Commissioner for Risk.
URA is also eyeing improvements in railway cargo clearance, which is currently handled on the Kenyan side, causing delays.
"We are in discussions with Uganda Railways Corporation to establish a railway clearance hub here. If we bring these containers to Uganda, we can enhance efficiency and speed up the process," Maliizi added.
With Malaba now hosting two bonded warehouses, the expanded clearance capacity is expected to improve trade facilitation, increase revenue collection, and strengthen Uganda’s position as a regional trade hub.