In an era of rapidly evolving global trade dynamics, maintaining a competitive customs administration requires continuous professional development. Gabon has taken significant strides toward this goal with support from the World Customs Organization (WCO).
Empowering Gabon's Customs Through the WCO-WACAM Project
Funded by the Swedish government, the WCO-WACAM project delivered a crucial "Train-the-Trainer" (ToT) workshop for Gabon's Customs Administration. Held in Libreville from September 11-15, the event marked the first pilot implementation of WCO's newly developed competency-based ToT training materials.
The intensive workshop transformed 23 participants—including seven women—into skilled trainers capable of developing and delivering customized training programs within Gabon's Customs Administration and beyond.
Practical Learning for Lasting Impact
The program employed an interactive blended learning approach, combining theoretical knowledge with practical application through:
- Group exercises simulating real customs scenarios
- Role-playing to enhance communication skills
- Hands-on training material development sessions
- Performance evaluation simulations
Gabonese officials praised the initiative, noting its significance in building capacity across critical operational areas including customs valuation, tariff classification, passenger control, post-clearance audit, and change management.
Building Sustainable Training Capacity
The newly certified trainers will develop and implement comprehensive training programs for incoming customs officers, with the first cycle scheduled for spring 2018. This initiative represents the culmination of WCO-WACAM's human resource development support for Gabon.
The WCO plans to return in 2018 to evaluate the program's long-term impact on both participants and organizational performance, ensuring the sustainability of knowledge transfer.
Key Competency Areas Developed
- Training cycle management: From needs assessment to evaluation
- Adult learning principles: Effective pedagogical approaches
- Curriculum development: Creating targeted training materials
- Performance evaluation: Measuring individual and organizational impact
The program's success demonstrates how international cooperation and capacity building can transform customs administrations in developing nations. By investing in professional development, Gabon positions its customs service to meet evolving global trade challenges and contribute to national economic growth.