East African Community members have agreed to adopt a regional electronic driver and cargo tracking system to find a regional response to stop the spread of COVID-19.
The driver surveillance system will share truck drivers’ information, including their current health information, and will be controlled by the revenue authorities from different countries.
It will avail information on screening collected at various checkpoints along the transport corridor. Additionally, it will issue certification which ascertains drivers’ COVID status for 14 days. The developments will help mitigate the disruption of supply channels serving the region.
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EAC will collaborate with Trademark East Africa (TMEA) to develop and operate the cargo and driver surveillance system. According to TMEA country Director Patience Mutesi, the system will make ports and borders safe for trade.
“The system will help automate linkages at key nodes, reducing the need for screening at every border. Implementing the drivers’ tracking system will make ports, borders, and critical supply chains safe for trade,” New Times quoted Mutesi.
Surveillance System to offer COVID Certification
Partner states will use the output to issue digital test certificates to ascertain the status of truck drivers and their crew. This scannable certificate will offer a common approach to certifying the results of drivers and crew tested for COVID-19.
Furthermore, the certificate with a barcode valid for 14 days will allow free movement for the drivers without retesting. However, drivers will undergo retesting if they show any symptoms of COVID-19. They will also retest upon re-entry, and after 14 days.
“The Digital surveillance tracker will interface and connect directly to designated laboratories in the Partner States.”
Trucking companies will provide an itinerary with details of fleet and personnel as well as ensure all drivers have the App.
Truck drivers will use their mobile phones as tracking devices, relaying information between various command centers along the corridor. The system will flag prolonged stay outside geofenced designated stopping points and alert relevant authorities and companies.
A joint meeting between member states’ officials designated for command centers in Kenya, DRC, Uganda, South Sudan, and Rwanda. However, Arusha, the EAC headquarters, will host the system.
Member countries will provide testing facilities and areas for drivers to spend nights and access refreshments. Moreover, countries will also provide key enablers to the digital system.
