State orders mandatory cargo screening to check radioactive materials

The Kenya Nuclear Regulatory Authority (KNRA) has issued new guidelines cargo handling at the country’s entry and exit ports aimed at checking radioactive materials.

The measures include mandatory screening of all cargo entering or exiting ports that must undergo specialised screening to detect and prevent illicit trafficking of special nuclear and other radioactive materials.

Unlike before where only declared cargo undergoes scrutiny, the state has introduced a mandatory requirement for every container entering or exiting the country to undergo screening, a move that may course delays in port clearances.

“Containerised cargo must pass through monitors stationed at strategic points, such as the Mombasa Port and Inland Container Depots,” KNRA states in a public notice published on Tuesday.

Accordions to the regulator, the monitors provide non-intrusive, high-sensitivity detection of gamma and neutron radiation.

“All legitimate radioactive sources must be accompanied by valid KNRA Import Licence. Accurate documentation, including the correct harmonised system (HS) codes, is required,” the notice issued to importers, exporters and licensed cargo agents adds.

KNRA, a state agency that is created by law with powers to ensure regulation of safe, secure and peaceful utilisation of atomic energy and nuclear technology.

The agency is also mandated to monitor the production and use of radiation source and radio active waste management.

Under the Nuclear Regulatory Act No 29 of 2019, authorisation by KNRA is required to import or export nuclear materials and radiation sources into and out of Kenya.

In the new protocols, KNRA says importers and agents must ensure trick drivers and terminal operators follow designated traffic flows to avoid bypassing security checkpoints at the ports of entry.

“Cooperation with the authority and multi-agency teams is essentials to minimise clearance delays. The directive is effective stating 1st may, 2026.”

The directives come just weeks after President William Ruto announced that Kenya plans to construct a 2,000MW nuclear power plant in Siaya county.

“Kenya plans to commence construction of a 2,000MW nuclear power plant in Siaya county next year, with commissioning of the project expected in 2034,” Ruto said on March 25, saying that the nuclear plant will be commissioned in 2027 and is expected to be completed by 2034.