Malaba, 27 April 2026: Malaba OSBP, one of Kenya’s busiest cargo crossings, has cut its electricity costs by about 90% after switching much of its border operations to solar power, reducing the risk that power outages will delay cargo clearance along the Northern Corridor. The upgrade was implemented through TradeMark Africa (TMA) under the Swedish-funded Kenya Enhanced Trade Environment and Inclusion (KETEI) programme.
The hybrid solar system, equipped with battery storage, now powers all operations at the facility, generating over 233,000 kilowatt-hours annually and meeting 78% of the border station’s energy needs. This significantly reduces reliance on the national grid and ensures continuity of critical systems.
H.E. Håkan Åkesson, Ambassador of Sweden to Kenya, said, “The installation of solar infrastructure is a clear demonstration of how smart, green investments can strengthen trade systems, reduce emissions, and improve the delivery of essential public services. It also reflects Sweden and Kenya’s shared commitment to sustainable economic transformation. Sweden is proud to stand with Kenya in building infrastructure that is modern, resilient, and climate-smart. As trade volumes grow and regional integration deepens, projects like this ensure that growth is both sustainable and inclusive. To us, this is not just a solar installation. It is a symbol of our shared commitment to a greener and more prosperous Kenya and East Africa.”
Speaking during the launch of the initiative at Malaba, KRA Deputy Commissioner for Risk Management George Aduwi observed that, before the upgrade, frequent power outages disrupted customs systems, cargo scanning, security infrastructure and lighting. To maintain operations during power outages, the border station relied on a high-capacity diesel generator. With stable power now in place, clearance processes are more consistent, reducing delays and allowing goods to move more predictably across the border. The shift to solar is also expected to reduce carbon emissions by more than 2,000 tonnes over the next decades.
“Reliable power is essential to keeping border operations running efficiently. With this system in place, we are seeing more consistent operations, fewer disruptions, and improved clearance at one of our key cargo border posts.”
Beyond Malaba, similar support has been extended to the Moyale OSBP, strengthening trade efficiency along the Lamu Port South Sudan – Ethiopia Transport (LAPSSET) Corridor. Previously, solar generation at the OSBP was limited to isolated buildings, with each installation operating independently. This project integrated those systems into a centralised supply, allowing solar power to be distributed across the entire facility and used more efficiently. It also included the installation of stand-alone solar-powered street lighting to enhance visibility and safety across the facility.
Ms. Lillian Mwai, TMA Country Director, said, “The Malaba solarisation project, alongside the support in Moyale, reflects KETEI’s focus on improving trade efficiency and strengthening green infrastructure. By addressing real constraints at the border, these investments are making trade more reliable and cost-effective, while contributing to increased regional trade under the African Continental Free Trade Area.”