Title: The modernization of the Kasumbalesa customs post: a crucial step in the fight against customs fraud
Introduction :
The fight against customs fraud is one of the major challenges that many countries face. In the Democratic Republic of Congo, President Félix Antoine Tshisekedi Tshilombo has made this fight a priority. Thus, the modernization of the Kasumbalesa customs post, on the border with Zambia, is an important step in this direction. In this article, we will explore the infrastructure built and efforts made to maximize state revenue under optimal conditions.
An imposing building to combat customs fraud:
The new Kasumbalesa customs post is distinguished by a modern building of 2,600 square meters, equipped with all the necessary operational equipment. This imposing construction demonstrates the Congolese government’s desire to strengthen the security and efficiency of customs operations at the border. In addition, bonded warehouses and accommodation for customs officers have also been set up to facilitate their work and guarantee their safety.
A fruitful collaboration:
The General Directorate of Customs and Excise (DGDA) was able to carry out this project thanks to a partnership with the Congolese company TRAFIGO SARL. Led by Madam Magalie Kayitesa Raway, this company has set up a reliable and secure system for maximizing customs revenue at the Kasumbalesa post. Thanks to this partnership, the DGDA was able to mobilize its own capital to carry out the modernization of this strategic border post.
Tangible results:
From the first year of implementation of the anti-leakage system, the DGDA’s revenues experienced a spectacular increase, increasing on average from 700 to 1,000%. This success is the result of efficient tax and royalty traceability software, transparent procedures integrated into the banking system and a management policy focused on ethics and employee training. Thus, the modernization of the Kasumbalesa customs post has enabled more efficient management of vehicle flows and a more intense fight against customs fraud.
An inspiration for female entrepreneurship:
President Tshisekedi has always expressed his support for female entrepreneurship in the Democratic Republic of Congo. The success of TRAFIGO SARL, managed by Magalie Kayitesa Raway, is a concrete example. This Congolese entrepreneur was able to meet the challenge of maximizing customs revenue while respecting international standards of transparency and good management. His company was able to fully repay the financing obtained from local banks.
Conclusion :
The modernization of the Kasumbalesa customs post marks a significant step forward in the fight against customs fraud in the Democratic Republic of Congo. Thanks to a successful partnership between the DGDA and TRAFIGO SARL, state revenues have seen a notable increase, while customs procedures have become more transparent and efficient. This inspiring example of female entrepreneurship shows that public-private collaboration can be a driving force for a country’s economic development. The modernization of the Kasumbalesa border is a further step towards optimized customs management and maximization of state revenue.