NRA joined other customs administrations worldwide on January 26, 2015 to celebrate world customs Day on the theme “Coordinated Border Management: an inclusive approach for connecting stakeholders.”

Speaking on the importance of the theme, the Manager, Assessment and Valuation Unit of the Customs and Excise Department Mr. Yassim Jalloh said a synchronized approach to border control would lead to fewer interventions on the movement of goods and persons. He said as Customs border management efficiency will target high risk passengers and cargoes mindful of all risk mitigation criteria of other border agencies, less time would be spent at borders. This he added translates cheaper transport cost and better business/ client experience.

Mr Jalloh said the NRA has been responding to the problem of inefficient border control through major reforms that have not only removed unnecessary barriers to legitimate trade, but also tackling smuggling and tax evasion. Activities marking World Customs Day has been low key this year as a result of the Ebola crisis and public emergency situation in the country.

According to a statement read on behalf of the Commissioner-General by Corporate Affairs Manager, Mohamed Bangura, the celebration this year was different due to the ban on public gathering which prevented the Authority from organizing its usual grand meeting as compared to subsequent years. He said various media programmes will be used to discuss the theme and other related customs issues signaling the Authority’s aspirations to strengthen its relationship with stakeholders.