Inefficient customs procedures and slow cargo clearance can significantly hinder a country's economic development. A World Customs Organization (WCO) capacity-building project for East and Southern Africa, funded by Finland, aims to address these challenges and revitalize regional trade.
The project recently held its third Steering Committee meeting in Port Louis, Mauritius. Launched in September 2011 with financial support from Finland's Ministry for Foreign Affairs, the three-year initiative titled "Trade Capacity Building Through Customs Modernization" focuses on five key areas to enhance customs capabilities across the region.
Five-Pronged Approach to Customs Modernization
The comprehensive project addresses:
- Leadership and Management Development: Training senior customs officials in modern management and leadership techniques
- Customs Enforcement Network (CEN) Support: Enhancing regional cooperation to combat smuggling through information sharing
- Coordinated Border Management Development: Improving cross-border coordination to streamline clearance processes
- Support for ESA ROCB: Strengthening the regional office's capacity-building coordination role
- Country-Specific Assistance for Namibia: Tailoring modernization solutions to national requirements
Steering Committee Oversight
The committee, comprising representatives from Mauritius, Kenya, South Africa, Namibia, Finland, and the WCO Secretariat, reviewed project progress and approved financial reports during the Mauritius meeting. Members expressed satisfaction with implementation to date and planned for upcoming mid-term evaluations focusing on:
- Goal achievement metrics
- Implementation efficiency
- Impact on regional trade facilitation
Cross-Cutting Priorities
Participants emphasized integrating gender equality, integrity, and environmental sustainability throughout all project components. Future activities will include:
- Advanced management training covering strategic planning and risk assessment
- Enhanced CEN database development for improved enforcement capabilities
- Promotion of international border management standards
- Targeted support for Namibia's customs reforms
The project's holistic approach combines operational improvements with sustainable development principles. Its anticipated outcomes include reduced trade costs, increased foreign investment, and job creation - ultimately benefiting regional economic growth and local communities.