URA urges infrastructure upgrade at Malaba, Busia borders

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The Uganda Revenue Authority (URA) has raised concerns over increasing traffic congestion at Malaba and Busia border posts, urging the government to invest in infrastructure expansion to accommodate the growing trade activity.

URA commissioner for customs Asadu Kigozi Kisutu attributed the surge in traffic to enhanced trade facilitation and relaxed conditions for establishing internal container depots (ICDs) and warehouses in Malaba, which have boosted local investment and job creation.

"Traffic is ever increasing and is about to increase even more. Congestion in Malaba and Busia has become a nightmare. We shall continue to campaign to ensure that the government expands the road network by at least establishing six lanes to accommodate the growing traffic," Kisutu said.

He made these remarks on Saturday, March 15, during the commissioning of Tan Investments ICD in Malaba, after experiencing a five-kilometre traffic jam that had disrupted movement along the Great Northern Corridor.

Tan Investments ICD, owned by former Tororo Municipality MP Sanjay Tanna, has a capacity to handle 1,000 trucks, with three bonded warehouses and a fuel testing facility operated by officials from the Ministry of Energy.

Tanna said the decision to establish the ICD in Malaba was driven by the need for improved domestic trade services, taking advantage of the government’s pro-business policies.

He noted that the facility has enhanced cargo clearance speeds and helped decongest the border, where limited space had previously slowed down operations. Plans are underway to introduce Uganda Railways Corporation (URC) cargo clearance at the ICD, shifting the process from Kenya. The facility will also incorporate grain handling, petroleum, and export trading services.

Meanwhile, URA Commissioner General John Rusinguzi Rujoki commended Tan Investments for its contribution to Uganda’s economy and compliance with tax obligations.

In a speech delivered on his behalf by commissioner for legal services and board affairs, Catherine Donovan Kyokunda, Rujoki described the company as "a true example of shining compliance in tax obligations."

He revealed that between July 2024 and March 15, 2025, Tan Investments contributed sh220 million in taxes, calling it a significant boost to Uganda’s trade economy.

Assistant commissioner for field services Geoffrey Okaka and assistant commissioner for compliance James Malinzi pledged continued collaboration with the company, noting that it has consistently adhered to all URA regulations.