"Deterring cargo theft": KRA deploys smart electronic seals to monitor trucks

The Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) has advanced in its efforts to monitor goods, moving from human customs escorts to tamper-proof customs seals, multi-vendor seals, and finally the Regional Electronic goods Tracking System (RECTS). KRA monitors all tracks transiting goods from the Port of Mombasa. RECTS is a web-based cargo tracking and monitoring platform integrated with customs management systems across the East African Community (EAC). How does KRA monitor trucks and goods on transit? Under the system, export and transit cargo moving through Kenya is fitted with electronic seals and monitored centrally. The technology has significantly improved cargo security, enhanced accountability in transit operations and reduced cargo clearance times. "Regional Electronic Cargo Tracking System has improved real-time monitoring of transit and export goods. This has helped deter dumping and cargo theft along the Northern corridor," KRA acting commissioner, customs and border control, Southern Region, Swalleh Faraj, said in a statement to TUKO.co.ke. Additionally, KRA is implementing the Integrated Customs Management System (iCMS), a modern platform that consolidates existing customs systems into a single, robust and efficient solution. The system is designed to seamlessly integrate with both internal and external platforms, enhancing operational efficiency and service delivery. KRA says iCMS is expected to transform customs processing by aligning operations with international best practices and making it easier to conduct business in Kenya and across the EAC region. The system is also expected to further simplify and streamline customs procedures in line with the World Trade Organisation's objective of harmonising and simplifying international trade processes. "To transition a shipment from a transport document (manifest) into an active tax declaration, clearing agents electronically lodge the customs entry directly into the iCMS," it explained. KRA tracks all goods destined for local and the regional market. What is KRA's new plan? KRA is aligning its cargo monitoring processes with evolving operational realities to enhance service delivery under the Regional Electronic Cargo Tracking System. In response to changing business needs, technological advancements and growing demand, the authority announced a transition to a multi-vendor, user-owned seals model for both dry cargo (e-seals) and wet cargo (e-fuel) electronic seals. According to KRA, the model is designed to address challenges such as seal availability and turnaround times while providing a secure, tamper-proof and auditable cargo monitoring system. When did the EAC customs bond take effect? Meanwhile, KRA introduced the East African Community (EAC) customs bond, requiring cross-border traders to adopt the new regional bond system aimed at improving compliance and facilitating the smooth movement of cargo within the region. The bond became effective on Tuesday, March 23, 2026. According to KRA, customs officials, clearing and forwarding agents, and transporters involved in cross-border trade will need to adapt to updated procedures designed to accelerate trade within the region.