Title: Maximize your customs revenue with public-private partnership: the inspiring example of Kasumbalesa
Introduction :
The fight against customs fraud and smuggling, as well as maximizing government revenue, are major challenges for many countries. In Kasumbalesa, Democratic Republic of Congo, the Directorate General of Customs and Excise (DGDA) responded to these challenges through an innovative public-private partnership. By inaugurating a new set of modern customs infrastructure, the DGDA was able to improve the speed of processing files, accelerate the rotation of vehicles and considerably increase its revenues. In this article, we present to you the inspiring example of Kasumbalesa and the essential contribution of a Congolese entrepreneur to maximize customs revenue.
A public-private partnership to modernize customs infrastructure:
Under the leadership of the President of the Republic Félix Antoine Tshisekedi Tshilombo, the DGDA has undertaken the modernization of the Kasumbalesa customs post. As part of this ambitious project, a modern building of 2,600 square meters was constructed, housing all the services necessary for the customs post. This new complex also includes a reinforced concrete bypass road, bonded warehouses, import-export parking lots and housing for customs officers. All these infrastructures were financed thanks to the DGDA’s own capital and a partnership with the Congolese company TRAFIGO SARL, managed by Magalie Kayitesi Raway.
A reliable and secure system to maximize customs revenue:
The company TRAFIGO SARL has implemented a unique, reliable and secure system to maximize customs revenue at the Kasumbalesa post. Thanks to efficient software and transparent procedures integrated into the banking system, this system allows increased traceability and efficient collection of taxes and fees imposed on users. The results are impressive: from the first year, customs revenue increased by 700 to 1,000%. This success is the result of management focused on ethics and training of human resources, thus helping to combat the leakage of revenues in customs operations.
Commitment to Congolese female entrepreneurship:
In his speeches, President Tshisekedi expressed his support for Congolese female entrepreneurship, encouraging women to take an active part in the country’s economic development. The Kasumbalesa public-private partnership is a concrete example of this commitment, with the participation of Magalie Kayitesi Raway at the head of TRAFIGO SARL. Her leadership and vision enabled the realization of this major project, demonstrating the potential of Congolese women entrepreneurs..
Conclusion :
The example of the Kasumbalesa customs post in Kinshasa is a source of inspiration for other countries seeking to maximize their customs revenue. Thanks to a strong public-private partnership and a reliable and secure system, the DGDA has enjoyed remarkable success in combating fraud and maximizing revenue. In addition, the involvement of a Congolese entrepreneur highlights the potential of female entrepreneurship in the economic development of the country. Through this example, it is clear that such innovative partnerships can have a significant impact on public finances and promote sustainable economic development.