Evaluation of RFID based Tracking Systems for securing transit goods in East Africa

In this paper, Radio Frequency Identification based Tracking Systems for securing transit goods under customs control in East Africa are discussed. Challenges experienced in the port and shortcomings of manual based tracking systems necessitated Kenya Revenue Authority to explore use of modern methods to track transit cargo. Two systems one based on Relevant Time System and the other on Real Time Location Tracking Systems were piloted. However an evaluation has never been done on the effectiveness of these systems in addressing previous challenges. This study therefore explores the salient feature of the two piloted systems, strengths, weaknesses, shortcomings, limitations and suitability of each. Results from the pilot use of both systems are discussed in which both tracking systems were observed to be more superior and effective compared to the current manual tracking systems. The suitability however of the two varied depending on the required level of security, risk profile of cargo, constraints on the cargo and means of transporting the goods.