KTA Grant Quarterly report July - September 2012

The OSBP aims to facilitate trade and reduce border congestion by streamlining customs clearance procedures. KTA has been actively involved in the implementation of the OSBP, participating in various meetings and workshops to advocate for the interests of its members. The OSBP Steering Committee meeting held in Moshi, Tanzania, on August 7-10, 2012, was attended by KTA representatives. The meeting aimed to review the progress on the construction of OSBP structures and offices at Holili (Tanzania) and Taveta (Kenya) border points. Observations from the meeting highlighted the need for OSBP infrastructure that can accommodate heavy trucks and buses, as well as the importance of budgetary facilitation from the respective governments to cover overhead costs. The Joint Border Committees (JBCs) Assessment Program, held at the Malaba border from July 9-13, 2012, was also attended by KTA representatives. The program aimed to assess the effectiveness of JBCs in facilitating trade and reducing border congestion. The assessment was based on six pillars, including institutional frameworks, legal and regulatory frameworks, operations and border post management systems, human resources and training, communication and information exchange, and infrastructure and equipment. In addition to the OSBP and JBCs initiatives, KTA has also been involved in other advocacy efforts, including the Safe Way Right Way meeting held in Nairobi on July 3, 2012. The meeting aimed to discuss the pillars of function of the initiative, which is anchored on road traffic injury prevention. The initiative is a partnership between the Total Group and the World Bank to improve road safety on two cross-border corridors in Africa. KTA has also been involved in the development of the East African HCV Drivers Training Institute, which aims to provide training to drivers on safe driving practices and road safety. The institute is a key component of the KTA's institutional development and sustainability pillar. The recruitment of new members has been a key focus area for KTA, with the association aiming to increase its membership base. The association has also been involved in the National Industrial Training Authority (NITA) membership program, which aims to provide training and capacity building to its members. Overall, KTA has been actively involved in various initiatives aimed at promoting trade facilitation, road safety, and institutional development in the East African region. The association's advocacy efforts have been focused on promoting the interests of its members and contributing to the development of the region's transportation sector.