The economic transformation of the African continent relies heavily on developing well-trained, efficient, and corruption-free customs administrations. But how can such teams be cultivated—ones that can safeguard national revenues, facilitate trade, and protect societal security simultaneously?
This question took center stage recently when Kunio Mikuriya, Secretary General of the World Customs Organization (WCO), attended the graduation ceremony for African Francophone customs officers at the Belgian Customs Academy. The event, hosted by Belgian Customs Director Kristian Vanderwaeren, celebrated 26 graduates from ten countries: Benin, Central African Republic, Chad, Comoros, Congo (Brazzaville), Djibouti, Guinea, Niger, Rwanda, and Togo. Ambassadors from these nations and their respective customs directors also participated.
Secretary General Mikuriya followed by summarizing discussions from the recent WCO Council meeting. He noted that customs directors universally recognized how increasing trade system uncertainties and rapid technological advancements demand stronger border management capabilities to ensure security and economic prosperity. Mikuriya particularly emphasized the newly operational African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), stressing that African customs administrations must provide technical expertise to advance regional integration—much as European customs did during Europe's integration process.
The WCO leader commended Belgium for organizing this training initiative, which strengthens inter-customs cooperation through knowledge exchange and international networking. The WCO supports the program through curriculum development and active participation in this professional network.
Strategic Significance: Beyond Skills Training
The Belgian Customs Academy's African program represents far more than technical skills development—it's a strategic capacity-building initiative with multi-dimensional importance:
Enhancing African Customs Administration: While African economies vary in development levels, most face customs capacity challenges that hinder revenue collection and international trade. The academy's systematic curriculum—covering customs procedures, risk management, trade facilitation, and IT applications—directly addresses these gaps, providing tangible support for economic growth.
Advancing Continental Integration: The AfCFTA's success requires harmonized standards and streamlined processes across borders. By bringing together officers from diverse African nations, the program fosters mutual understanding and trust—foundations for future cooperation. Participants study European best practices while collaborating on regional standards and information-sharing mechanisms.
Forging Global Networks: In our interconnected world, customs challenges increasingly transcend borders. The program enables African officers to build international relationships, expand professional perspectives, and elevate Africa's voice in global customs affairs.
The WCO's Pivotal Role
As the global customs authority, the WCO contributes substantially to this initiative by:
- Providing technical expertise in curriculum design and implementation
- Promoting international standards like the Revised Kyoto Convention and SAFE Framework
- Strengthening connections between African customs and the global community
Future Directions
To maximize impact, the program could expand by:
- Including more Anglophone and Lusophone African countries
- Tailoring courses to specific national needs
- Enhancing practical training through international internships
- Establishing sustainable, long-term capacity development mechanisms
With continued collaboration between African nations, Belgium, and the WCO, such initiatives can transform Africa's customs landscape—driving economic progress and regional unity across the continent.