Businesses Disrupted as Truck Drivers Halt Cargo Movement to South Sudan

The Long-Distance Drivers and Conductors Association (LoDDCA) has issued an urgent directive halting all South Sudan-bound cargo loading after the Elegu border point reached full capacity.

The association says movement is paralysed at the border due to severe congestion along the corridor, with designated holding areas fully saturated and vehicles spilling into surrounding zones.

In a statement issued on May 3, LoDDCA said the situation has reached a breaking point, warning that continued dispatch of cargo toward South Sudan will worsen the gridlock and expose drivers to heightened risks.

“LoDDCA hereby directs: Immediate Suspension: All transporters, clearing agents, and drivers must halt the loading and dispatch of cargo destined for South Sudan until further notice.”

Long-distance trucks along the Malaba-Bungoma Highway

Photo

Drivers currently en route have been instructed to park at Malaba before crossing into Uganda or at other designated secure rest stops along the corridor.

The directive comes as ongoing industrial action enters its sixth day. Truck drivers are striking over rising insecurity along the Nimule–Juba corridor.

In a statement on May 2, LoDDCA described a recent incident that left a Kenyan driver with severe head injuries. 

The situation escalated further in Yirol, where 10 Kenyan drivers were reportedly detained and taken to an undisclosed location without formal charges or communication.

Drivers are demanding the immediate release of detained colleagues, disclosure of their whereabouts and proper legal processing of any charges. 

They are also calling for investigations, action against perpetrators, stronger security patrols, removal of illegal charges and compensation for victims. 

LoDDCA said the industrial action has left transport operations at a standstill, noting that existing infrastructure at the Elegu border can no longer safely accommodate additional trucks.

The association maintains that the suspension of cargo movement will remain in force until safety, security and operational conditions are restored through clear and enforceable measures. The statement said updates will be issued as the situation evolves.

A picture of trucks in a traffic snarl-up on Eldoret Malaba border.

Photo

Twitter