The National Revenue Authority (NRA) has taken centre stage in global customs discourse as the World Customs Organisation (WCO) Conference officially commenced in Freetown on Monday, May 4 2026. Hosted by NRA, the high-level gathering brings together Customs Experts from 18 countries and 5 Economic Operators from the Private Sector.

The conference runs through Friday under the theme: ‘A Customs Service that protects society through its vigilance and commitment.’
Setting the tone for the conference on Day One, 4th May 2026, the Deputy Commissioner General 1 of the NRA, Ann Marie Baby Harding, in her Welcome Remarks, underscored the critical role of customs in safeguarding society.

“Customs must remain vigilant at all times, because the risks we face are evolving every day. Our commitment must be firm; our systems must be intelligent; and our officers must act with integrity. We are not only protecting revenue; we are protecting lives, livelihoods, and the future of our nation. Sierra Leone stands ready to work with partners to strengthen compliance and to build a customs service that truly safeguards society.”

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Presentations from key WCO partners emphasised the evolving role of customs administrations as both revenue collectors and frontline defenders of society.
The high-level session, moderated by Maiga Abdoulaye, Chief of Cabinet of the Vice-Chair of WCO-WCA, facilitated focused, solution-driven discussions among global delegates.

Key highlights from the day one session were engagement with the private sector representatives from the trading and logistics community, which included presentations and discussions of the Region’s Institutional Framework, Terms of Reference and Objectives that established the Private Sector Representative Group (GRSP), and the election of the Chairman, Vice Chairman, and First and Second Secretaries of the group.

Deliberations also addressed illicit trade and transnational crime. There was consensus on the need for data-driven systems, coordinated international action, and continuous capacity building.
As host, the NRA has been commended for convening the conference. Sierra Leone’s role in global customs engagement continues to grow.
With more sessions scheduled, the conference is expected to deliver practical outcomes that will strengthen customs systems and protect society.