Title: Modern building at the Kasumbalesa border: a step towards customs modernization in the DRC
Introduction :
The modernization of customs infrastructure is a major challenge for the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) in order to effectively combat customs fraud and optimize state revenue. At Kasumbalesa, a strategic border post with Zambia, a modern building was inaugurated, marking a significant step forward in the modernization of customs services. This article will present the details of this new infrastructure and the impact it could have on the fight against customs fraud in the DRC.
A modern building for efficient customs:
The new 2,600 square meter building in Kasumbalesa is equipped with all the necessary equipment to ensure rapid and efficient processing of customs files. It is part of a series of infrastructures also including an 8-kilometre reinforced concrete bypass road, bonded warehouses, import-export car parks, as well as accommodation for customs officers. This modernization will make it possible to improve the speed in the processing of customs files and accelerate the rotation of vehicles at the border.
A public-private partnership to maximize customs revenue:
The General Directorate of Customs and Excise (DGDA) carried out this project in partnership with the Congolese company TRAFIGO SARL, managed by Madame Magalie Kayitesa Raway. The system put in place by this Congolese entrepreneur allows customs revenue to be maximized thanks to efficient software for traceability and collection of taxes and fees. In addition, transparent procedures integrated into the banking system ensure efficient revenue management. The implementation of this system has already enabled the DGDA to see its revenue increase significantly.
A fight against customs fraud and revenue leakage:
Thanks to this new infrastructure and the revenue maximization system, the fight against customs fraud is strengthened in Kasumbalesa. The monitoring and collection of taxes and fees is now more rigorous, thereby reducing opportunities for misappropriation. In addition, the local population welcomes the involvement of Congolese female entrepreneurship in this dynamic, thus encouraging greater participation of women in the economic sector.
Conclusion :
The new modern building at the Kasumbalesa border marks a significant step forward in the modernization of customs infrastructure in the DRC. Thanks to the public-private partnership between the DGDA and TRAFIGO SARL, customs revenues are maximized and the fight against fraud strengthened. This is a concrete example of the efforts made by the Congolese government to improve the efficiency and transparency of customs services, thus contributing to the economic development of the country. The modernization of customs infrastructure in Kasumbalesa is another step towards effective border management and the fight against customs fraud in the DRC.