Title: Modernization of the Kasumbalesa customs post in the DRC: A step towards efficiency and revenue maximization
Introduction :
Modernizing customs infrastructure is a priority for the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) in its fight against customs fraud and smuggling. The Kasumbalesa customs post on the border with Zambia has recently undergone a major renovation and upgrade. Inaugurated by President Félix Tshisekedi, this new set of infrastructures is the result of a public-private partnership and aims to facilitate the processing of files, streamline cross-border trade and maximize state revenue.
An imposing new building for efficient services:
The central point of this modernization is the construction of a modern 2,600 square meter building specially designed to house customs services in Kasumbalesa. Equipped with all the necessary equipment, this building offers an optimal working environment for customs agents. In addition, it is equipped with an electronic system for payment of passage fees, allowing rapid and transparent management of transactions.
A bypass road and associated infrastructure:
In addition to the main building, other infrastructure has also been put in place to improve the efficiency of the customs post. An 8 kilometer reinforced concrete bypass road was built to facilitate the passage of trucks and reduce road congestion. In addition, bonded warehouses, import-export parking lots with a capacity of 1,500 trucks, as well as accommodation for customs officers were installed to meet the operational needs of the Kasumbalesa customs post.
A public-private partnership to maximize revenue:
The modernization of the Kasumbalesa customs post was made possible thanks to a partnership between the General Directorate of Customs and Excise (DGDA) and the company TRAFIGO SARL, managed by Madam Magalie Kayitesa Raway. This partnership enabled the DGDA to mobilize equity capital to finance the project and guarantee its success.
A significant increase in customs revenue:
The establishment of a reliable and secure system for maximizing customs revenue in Kasumbalesa has had a very positive impact from its first year of implementation. Customs revenues increased on average by 700 to 1,000%, demonstrating the effectiveness of the system put in place. This system includes efficient software for traceability and collection of taxes and fees, as well as a management policy focused on ethics and training of human resources.
A textbook case to follow to combat customs fraud:
The modernization of the Kasumbalesa customs post in the DRC represents a concrete example of the fight against customs fraud and smuggling in the sub-region. The results obtained thanks to this public-private partnership and the establishment of an effective revenue maximization system show that it is possible to combat these problems successfully.
Conclusion :
The modernization of the Kasumbalesa customs post in the DRC is a significant step in the fight against customs fraud and smuggling. Thanks to a public-private partnership and the establishment of a modern and efficient system, customs revenues have increased considerably. This initiative shows the Congolese government’s commitment to improving the efficiency of customs services and maximizing state revenue.