A dispute is developing between shippers, carriers, and the government on the application of the EAC vehicle load statute, which places restrictions on truck height.
The East African Community Vehicle Load Control Act, 2016, intended for the region, has been enforced by the government through the Kenya National Highways Authority (KeNHA).
The Act limits the total height of a vehicle to 4.3 meters, unless it is an abnormal load, in which case it may be permitted, subject to the authority issuing an exemption permission that specifies the times and routes that must be followed in order to safeguard road-related infrastructure and public safety.
When 40-foot containers are used, the majority of them are higher than what is permitted, and heavy commercial vehicles transporting containers have been breaking this restriction.

The Mombasa port, a vital trade gateway for East and Central Africa, is facing a major disruption. A recently implemented container height rule has thrown the port into chaos, with hundreds of trucks grounded and cargo transportation significantly hampered. This blog post will delve into the specifics of the regulation, explore its far-reaching consequences, and discuss potential solutions to navigate this complex situation.

Understanding the Container Height Rule:

The new regulation, introduced by the Kenya National Highway Authority (KeNHA), restricts the height of containers transported by trucks on Kenyan roads. This rule prohibits trucks from carrying standard 40-foot high cube shipping containers exceeding 4.3 meters in height. Previously, these containers were allowed with special permits.

Read also: BUSINESS DAILY: KeNHA impounds trucks over height rule

Impact of the Rule:

The new height restriction has had a domino effect on the entire logistics chain. Here’s a breakdown of the key challenges:

• Trucks Grounded:Many trucks equipped to carry standard 40-foot containers are now unable to operate, leading to a shortage of suitable vehicles for cargo transportation.
• Cargo Delays:The limited availability of compliant trucks has resulted in significant delays in transporting goods to and from the port. This disrupts import and export schedules, causing financial losses for businesses and impacting consumer access to imported goods.
• Logistics Backlog:The congestion at the port is causing a backlog of cargo, with containers piling up at the docks. These further strain storage capacity and slow down overall port operations.
• Frustration and Costs:The situation has created frustration and financial strain for all stakeholders involved. Businesses face delays, demurrage charges (fees for exceeding container storage time at the port), and potential lost sales. Additionally, transporters incur costs due to grounded vehicles and lost opportunities.

Read also: KENYA GOVERNMENT EXAMINING THE SH2.5 MILLION BENCHMARKING FEE AT MOMBASA PORT

Seeking Solutions:

Finding a solution to this crisis requires open communication and collaboration between various stakeholders. Here are some potential approaches:

• Reviewing the Rule:Authorities can consider revising the height restriction to accommodate standard 40-foot containers with stricter safety regulations and proper permitting procedures.
• Infrastructure Improvements:Upgrading roads and bridges to accommodate taller containers could be a long-term solution, but requires significant investment and planning.
• Alternative Transport:Exploring alternative modes of transport, such as rail or barges, could help alleviate pressure on road freight, particularly for long-distance journeys.
• Streamlining Permits:Simplifying the process for obtaining permits for oversized containers can expedite transport and reduce delays.

Conclusion:

The current situation at Mombasa port highlights the complexity of balancing logistics efficiency with safety concerns. Finding a sustainable solution requires a collaborative effort from government agencies, the transport sector, and private businesses. By fostering open communication and exploring various options, stakeholders can work towards a resolution that minimizes disruption and ensures the smooth flow of cargo through Mombasa, a vital trade hub for the region.