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The National Revenue Authority (NRA) marked International Customs Day with a series of events held across key locations in Sierra Leone, including the Customs House in Freetown, Gbalamuya-Kambia, Lungi, and Jendema.
The day observed globally on January 26, focused on the theme “Customs Delivering on its Commitment to Efficiency, Security and Prosperity,” highlighting the vital role of customs in facilitating international trade, ensuring security, and supporting regulatory compliance.
The main event, held at the Customs House in Cline Town, Freetown, saw key figures deliver speeches, underscoring the significance of customs in the nation’s economic development. Deputy Commissioner General 2 of the NRA, Mr. Gerald P.H. Ganda, moderated the occasion, which included contributions from representatives of various stakeholders such as the Sierra Leone Ports and Harbour Authority (SLPHA), Nectar, Freetown Terminal Bollore, Integrated Trade Services (ITS), the Association of Clearing and Forwarding Agencies (ACFA), and the Sierra Leone Importers Association.
In his address, Commissioner of the Customs Services Department, Mr. Tennyson Bio, dedicated the celebrations to taxpayers and emphasized the importance of embracing digital transformation to streamline customs operations. He called for greater efficiency and modernization of the sector, in line with global trade practices.
Deputy Commissioner General 1, Mrs. Ann Marie Baby Harding, reflected on the growing role of customs in national revenue generation. She reiterated the NRA’s commitment to improving transparency and adapting to the evolving landscape of digital trade. Harding also underscored the need for continuous professional development to meet the increasing demands of modern customs operations.
The NRA Board Chairperson, Mr. Kabineh M. Kallon, advocated for legislative reforms to align Sierra Leone’s customs operations with international standards, urging customs officers to uphold the highest standards of professionalism and integrity.
Guest speaker Mr. Abdulai Caulker, National Security Coordinator at the Office of National Security (ONS), stressed the critical role of customs in ensuring national security and international trade stability. He praised the NRA for its significant contribution to revenue mobilization and economic growth under the leadership of Commissioner General, Mrs. Jeneba J. Bangura.
International Customs Day celebrations across Sierra Leone served as a reminder of the pivotal role customs administrations play in fostering global trade, ensuring border security, and driving economic prosperity.
