Importers outraged by Mombasa backlog

Delays in off-loading cargo in Mombasa is costing importers storage costs of up to $15 000 a day. Grain importers have been the hardest hit by the delays, with huge volumes of maize and wheat being held at the facility awaiting discharge, a situation that could affect consumers in future as they will have to absorb the extra charges. The Nation reports that logistics firms and millers have raised concerns over the delays that have now cut the supply of goods in the market, signalling a looming shortage. Public Works Principal Secretary Paul Maringa said it is not in the interest of government to have a monopoly at port control and it would welcome another player.