The Lesotho Revenue Authority (LRA) is positioning itself as a regional leader in human resource management modernization within the Southern African Customs Union (SACU) area. With support from the World Customs Organization's (WCO) Executive and Professional Competency-Based Human Resource Management Project (EPCB-HRMP), the LRA is making significant strides toward implementing contemporary HR practices.
WCO-Backed HR Modernization Initiative
Since January 2020, the LRA has participated in the first phase of WCO's EPCB-HRMP program. The authority has since implemented WCO recommendations by adopting competency-based HR management approaches and establishing a cross-functional HR modernization task force. This group has developed competency frameworks and dictionaries as foundational tools.
From June 30 to July 3, 2020, the WCO conducted a specialized online capacity-building workshop for LRA's HR modernization team. The virtual session involved 21 senior officials, including union representatives, and focused on:
- Effective application of competency-based HR tools across management functions
- Designing competency-aligned recruitment, training, and performance evaluation processes
- Ensuring strategic alignment between HR systems and organizational objectives
- Implementation of WCO's workload analysis methodology for staff optimization
Capacity Development Outcomes
The training equipped LRA's HR team with enhanced capabilities in several critical areas:
- Developing comprehensive competency frameworks aligned with strategic goals
- Creating role-specific competency models for targeted recruitment
- Integrating competency assessments into performance management systems
- Designing tailored training programs to address skill gaps
Organizational Transformation Prospects
The WCO has expressed confidence in LRA's commitment to HR modernization, noting the quality of work by the implementation team. Continued progress could establish LRA as a regional model for customs administrations.
Key requirements for sustained success include:
- Maintaining executive-level support for modernization efforts
- Securing adequate resource allocations
- Fostering collaborative partnerships with international organizations
- Developing adaptive implementation strategies
The modernization initiative presents both challenges and opportunities for LRA. Successful implementation could yield significant operational improvements, including enhanced workforce productivity and strategic alignment. The organization's experience may provide valuable insights for other developing nations pursuing similar reforms.