Title: Kasumbalesa customs post: an exemplary modernization to fight fraud and maximize state revenue
Introduction :
The fight against customs fraud and the maximization of state revenue are major challenges for any country. In Kasumbalesa, Democratic Republic of Congo, the General Directorate of Customs and Excise (DGDA) has taken exemplary measures to respond to these challenges. Thanks to a public-private partnership and a clear vision from President Félix Antoine Tshisekedi Tshilombo, the Kasumbalesa customs post was successfully modernized. This article highlights the efforts made, the infrastructure built and the results obtained.
Modern infrastructures serving the fight against fraud:
At the heart of this modernization, an imposing 2,600 square meter building was constructed. The latter houses the services involved and is equipped with all the necessary operational equipment. In addition, an 8-kilometer reinforced concrete bypass road was built to facilitate cross-border trade. Bonded warehouses, import-export car parks and accommodation for customs officers have also been set up. These modern infrastructures make it possible to speed up the processing of customs files and optimize vehicle rotation.
A fruitful collaboration between the DGDA and TRAFIGO SARL:
The DGDA carried out this project thanks to its own capital and a partnership with TRAFIGO SARL, a Congolese company managed by Madame Magalie Kayitesa Raway. This Congolese entrepreneur has set up a reliable and secure system for maximizing customs revenue in Kasumbalesa. Thanks to this partnership, 100% of border users now use the electronic device to pay crossing fees. Payments are made in real time using the ASYCUDA platform.
Convincing results thanks to the effectiveness of the anti-leak device:
From the first year of implementation of the anti-leakage system, the DGDA’s revenues increased significantly, increasing on average from 700 to 1,000%. This performance can be attributed to efficient traceability and tax collection software, transparent procedures integrated into the banking system, as well as a management policy focused on ethics and training of human resources. The secure channeling of state revenues to Kasumbalesa makes it possible to mobilize the necessary resources to facilitate cross-border trade and promote the development of the region.
Conclusion :
The modernization of the Kasumbalesa customs post is an example of success in the fight against customs fraud and maximization of state revenue. Thanks to an effective public-private partnership and the vision of President Félix Antoine Tshisekedi Tshilombo, the modern infrastructures put in place have considerably improved the processing of customs files and the fluidity of cross-border trade. This experience, led by a Congolese entrepreneur, demonstrates the capacity of female entrepreneurship to contribute to the economic development of the country. By duplicating this approach in other customs posts, the DRC could strengthen its fight against fraud and maximize its revenues, thus paving the way for sustainable development.