President William Ruto chairs Cabinet meeting on February 11, 2025 at State House Nairobi
The Cabinet has endorsed a plan to allow travelers entering Kenya to enjoy an increased duty-free import limit of up to Sh250,000 from Sh50,000.
Previously, travelers complained about having their goods seized for exceeding the Sh50,000 threshold.
Under the plan, passengers bringing goods for personal use valued at up to Sh250,000 will no longer be required to pay customs duties.
A dispatch said the Cabinet endorsed a comprehensive plan to enhance passenger experience at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) by streamlining operations and bolstering security.
“Security screening at JKIA will be enhanced through risk-based profiling, ensuring only flagged bags undergo manual inspection in a dedicated screening room, reducing delays and improving efficiency,” the dispatch said.
It said changes also include exempting all African citizens from Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) requirements and easing intra-African travel.
To further expedite travel, the Cabinet announced that the number of immigration booths and staff will be doubled, while E-Gates will be introduced to eliminate long queues and speed up clearance.
“Accountability measures will also be strengthened with new monitoring technology deployed to oversee airport staff and mandatory uniforms with visible name tags required for all agency employees and retail concessionaires,” the dispatch added.
The Cabinet further announced that JKIA infrastructure will also undergo major upgrades, including modernised baggage handling systems, improved stormwater drainage and access roads, the installation of covered walkways, enhanced air conditioning, and clearer signage.
“Meet-and-greet services will be strictly regulated, ensuring only licensed facilitators operate within the airport to enhance security and order. These measures take immediate effect, reinforcing JKIA’s position as a leading aviation hub by improving efficiency, security, and overall passenger experience,” the statement added.
President William Ruto chairs Cabinet meeting on February 11, 2025, at State House NairobiCabinet also approved several host country agreements, reinforcing Kenya’s role as a regional hub for international organisations.
These include agreements with the International Institute
for Democracy and Electoral Assistance, Save the Children International,
Shelter Afrique Development
Bank, Oxfam International, Norwegian Refugee Council, and Population Services International, among others.
Additionally, Cabinet approved the ratification of an agreement with Singapore to eliminate double taxation and prevent fiscal evasion, further strengthening Kenya’s global trade and investment ties.
Cabinet also endorsed Kenya’s hosting of the International Air Transport Association (IATA), underscoring the country’s commitment to enhancing international cooperation and economic diplomacy.