Japan Donates 4.2 Billion FCFA for Road Equipment and Maintenance in Burkina FasoKRA Aims to Increase Revenue Collection at Busia One-Stop Border Post to Sh1 Billion

OUAGADOUGOU — Burkina Faso’s Minister of Foreign Affairs and Regional Cooperation, Karamoko Jean Marie Traoré, signed an agreement on Saturday in Ouagadougou with the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) for a donation of approximately 4.2 billion FCFA. This funding is earmarked for road equipment and maintenance in Burkina Faso.

According to Burkina Information Agency, the agreement was signed between Minister Traoré and Keiichi Okitsu, the resident representative of JICA in Burkina Faso. The donation from the Japanese government is intended to enhance the road infrastructure in Burkina Faso, a critical component of the nation’s economy. Minister Traoré, as quoted by his communication services, expressed that the agreement signifies a new phase in road development, focusing on connectivity and accessibility, which are vital for economic support structures.

The representative of JICA, Mr. Okitsu, reaffirmed Japan’s commitment to Burkina Faso, mentioning the possibility of future projects that would benefit the Burkinabè people. The presence of the Japanese international cooperation agency in Burkina Faso dates back to 1998. JICA has been actively involved in the country, providing assistance in technical cooperation, non-repayable financial cooperation, and loans as part of public development aid.

This donation marks a continuation of the longstanding relationship between Burkina Faso and Japan and signifies a significant investment in the infrastructure development of Burkina Faso, aiming to bolster its economic growth and connectivity.

BUSIA, Kenya — The Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) is setting its sights on raising revenue collection to Sh1 billion at the Busia and Malaba One Stop Border Post by the end of June this year. This ambitious target was discussed during the International Customs Day celebrations at Busia Polytechnic grounds.

According to Kenya News Agency, Western Kenya Region KRA Coordinator, the County currently contributes about Sh. 800 million per month to the national government. Njau emphasized the strategic importance of Busia as a critical border point and a gateway to East Africa. She revealed that KRA is collaborating with the Kenya National Chamber of Commerce and Industry to unify businesses around the border. She noted that currently, the Busia border post generates approximately Sh 450 million monthly, a figure that is expected to grow with the increasing traffic of lorries, coffee, fish, and other agricultural commodities.

Njau pointed out the challenge posed by tight road infrastructure due to the surge in traffic, particularly with the addition of the DR Congo and Sudan as East African Community (EAC) Member States. She stated that while the border post initially cleared 230 trucks per day, it now handles up to 300 trucks. The official acknowledged that operations at the One Stop Border Post (OSBP) can be slow, but assured that KRA, along with partner government agencies, is working to streamline processes to reduce truck clearance time and alleviate congestion.

Another challenge highlighted by Njau is the long stretches of porous border, which create opportunities for smuggling and illicit trade. She mentioned that KRA has received significant support from the County Commissioner’s office and has conducted sensitization programs for residents to encourage the use of designated entry points.

Lilian Nyawanda, the Commissioner for Customs and Border Control, urged partners to engage in legal trade and utilize the One-Stop Border Post. She emphasized the need for infrastructure expansion due to the growth in trade over the years, noting that KRA is partnering with the Uganda Revenue Authority (URA) to optimize facility use and is working with the national government for space expansion.

Busia Deputy Governor Arthur Odera commented on the impact of truck traffic in Busia town, revealing plans to establish trailer parks at both Busia and Malaba border posts to mitigate this issue. Odera called for enhanced collaboration with the KNCCI to attract more investors and create job opportunities for local youth. He assured KRA of the County Government’s readiness to provide necessary infrastructure, including water and market facilities.

The forum brought together women, cross-border traders, members of the KNCCI, KRA, URA officers, and a section of Busia residents.