The Malaba border market in Uganda serves as a significant conduit for cross-border trade between Uganda and Kenya. Situated along the Northern Corridor, it facilitates the movement of goods and people between the two nations.

Trade and Economic Activity

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  Strategic Importance: Malaba is one of the busiest border crossings in the East African Community (EAC), handling an average of over 1,200 vehicles daily. It plays a pivotal role in facilitating trade between Uganda and Kenya. 

  
  


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  Informal Trade: While formal trade is significant, informal cross-border trade also thrives, particularly in agricultural commodities like Irish potatoes. The main Irish potato market at Malaba is located on the Ugandan side, serving both Ugandan and Kenyan traders. 

  
  

Empowering Small-Scale Traders

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  Women in Trade: A substantial proportion of small-scale traders at Malaba are women. However, they often face challenges such as limited access to market information and exposure to corruption. 

  
  

Infrastructure and Development

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  One-Stop Border Post (OSBP): The OSBP at Malaba aims to streamline customs and immigration procedures, reducing clearance times and enhancing trade efficiency. However, challenges such as a dilapidated 1 km connecting road between Uganda and Kenya hinder optimal operation. 

  
  

The Malaba border market in Uganda is a vital economic center that facilitates significant trade between Uganda and Kenya. Ongoing infrastructure developments and support initiatives aim to enhance trade efficiency, empower traders—especially women—and promote economic growth in the region.