🛡️ Kenya Introduces Mandatory Digital Marine Cargo Insurance for All Imports

The Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) has rolled out a new requirement that mandates all importers to acquire marine cargo insurance locally and digitally. Effective February 14, 2025, this move aligns with updates to the Finance Act, 2017, and relevant insurance legislation, reinforcing the government’s push to streamline import processes and promote local insurance providers.

📋 What’s Changing?

Under the new directive, importers must now purchase marine cargo insurance policies only from insurers licensed in Kenya. Sourcing coverage from international providers not recognized by the Insurance Regulatory Authority (IRA) is no longer allowed.

This requirement applies to any cargo entering the country and must be fulfilled before customs clearance can proceed.

📲 The Digital Insurance Workflow

KRA and IRA have collaborated to introduce a seamless digital process for acquiring and submitting marine cargo insurance certificates. Here’s how it works:

1. Start With an IDF
   Insurance certificates can only be issued against a valid Import Declaration Form (IDF). This is a prerequisite for starting the digital application.
   
   
2. Choose Your Platform
   Importers or their clearing agents can access digital insurance portals via:
   
   - Coral Mini App (on M-PESA Super App)
   - Coral Web Portal
   - Insurance company apps or websites
   - The Kentrade Single Window Portal
   
   
3. Link Your IDF
   The system will automatically retrieve IDF details if you're a registered agent or consignee. If not, you can manually enter the IDF number to begin.
   
   
   
4. Complete and Submit the Application
   Fill in the necessary fields, pay the insurance premium, and submit your application through the digital platform.
   
   
   
5. System-to-System Integration
   Once verified, the certificate is sent electronically via the IRA platform straight to KRA’s Integrated Customs Management System (ICMS).
   
   
6. Confirmation and Clearance
   The importer will receive a confirmation once KRA accepts the digital insurance certificate, enabling them to move forward with customs clearance.

🚛 What This Means for Logistics & Trade

For logistics companies, clearing agents, and importers, this digital shift offers several benefits:

• Faster Clearance Times
  With a digitized process, the paperwork bottleneck is minimized, leading to smoother import workflows.
  
  
• Local Business Support
  The new rule supports Kenyan insurers, strengthening the local economy and reducing outflows to foreign firms.
  
  
• Increased Transparency & Compliance
  System integration ensures every policy is traceable and verifiable, reducing fraud and boosting accountability.

💬 Final Thoughts

This update marks a major step forward in Kenya’s digital transformation of trade. At Anthony Owens Logistics, we’re ready to guide our clients through these changes. Whether you're a first-time importer or a high-volume trader, our team ensures your cargo remains compliant, insured, and cleared without delay.

Need help securing your Digital Marine Cargo Insurance Certificate?
Let our clearance experts take care of it — so you can focus on your business.