A quiet revolution is underway at Botswana's Mamuno border crossing, where what was once a symbol of bureaucratic delays is being transformed into a model of trade efficiency. This transformation comes as part of a comprehensive initiative supported by the World Customs Organization (WCO) to modernize customs procedures and facilitate smoother trade flows across Southern Africa.
The Time Release Study: A Diagnostic Tool for Trade Efficiency
The Botswana Unified Revenue Service (BURS), in collaboration with WCO's Sida-WCO Trade Facilitation and Customs Modernization (TFCM) program, has implemented a Time Release Study (TRS) at the Mamuno border post. This strategic initiative aims to systematically analyze and optimize the entire goods clearance process between Botswana and Namibia.
The TRS methodology functions as a comprehensive diagnostic tool, meticulously examining each stage of border operations - from document submission to physical inspections and final release. By identifying bottlenecks and inefficiencies, the study provides data-driven insights for process improvements that could significantly reduce clearance times.
From Data Collection to Actionable Insights
In January 2024, a dedicated TRS task force conducted intensive field research at Mamuno, gathering operational data across all clearance stages. This granular data collection covered every aspect of border operations, including customs declarations, physical examinations, and administrative procedures.
The current phase involves sophisticated data analysis to transform raw operational metrics into concrete improvement strategies. WCO experts are providing technical support to BURS in evaluating key performance indicators such as average clearance duration, inspection rates, and documentation processing times.
Laying the Foundation for a One-Stop Border Post
The TRS findings are expected to directly inform the development of a future One-Stop Border Post (OSBP) at Mamuno, aligning Botswana's border operations with international best practices. This transition promises multiple benefits for regional trade:
• Reduced clearance times through streamlined procedures
• Lower transaction costs for cross-border traders
• Enhanced regional competitiveness through improved trade flows
• Potential economic growth through increased commercial activity
International Cooperation Driving Local Transformation
This initiative exemplifies WCO's 2024 theme of "Customs Engaging Traditional and New Partners with Purpose." The partnership between WCO and BURS combines global customs expertise with local implementation knowledge, creating a model for international technical cooperation.
The sustained engagement through the Sida-WCO TFCM program ensures ongoing support as Botswana works to implement the TRS recommendations. This collaborative approach demonstrates how international organizations can effectively support national development priorities while strengthening regional economic integration.
As the TRS progresses toward its final implementation phase, the Mamuno border crossing stands poised to become a showcase for efficient, modern border management in Southern Africa - potentially serving as a blueprint for similar transformations across the continent.