In January 2022, the World Customs Organization (WCO), with funding from the Japanese government, conducted a landmark workshop for Comoros Customs to enhance the island nation's capacity to manage natural disasters and disruptive events. This initiative marked a significant step in Comoros' journey toward improved disaster preparedness and economic stability.
A Collaborative Approach to Disaster Preparedness
The five-day workshop in Moroni brought together over 50 participants from various sectors, including customs administration, border agencies, disaster management ministries, international organizations, and humanitarian groups. This diverse gathering facilitated comprehensive discussions on improving disaster response mechanisms, particularly focusing on the clearance of relief goods during emergencies.
Participants examined critical WCO instruments and international best practices, with special attention given to:
- The newly released WCO Vaccine Facilitation Tools
- The WCO Disaster Management and Supply Chain Continuity Guide
- Customs procedures for high-priority relief items
- Standard operating procedures for emergency situations
Addressing Dual Challenges
Comoros faces unique vulnerabilities as a small island developing state. Mr. Kamalidouni Souef, representing the Comoros Ministry of Finance, emphasized the workshop's timeliness, noting the country's simultaneous efforts to recover from 2017's Cyclone Kenneth while combating the COVID-19 pandemic.
The workshop produced several concrete outcomes:
- A comprehensive review of national legislation against international standards
- Draft standard operating procedures for relief goods clearance
- Identification of process improvements for different categories of relief items
- Plans for future simulation exercises to test emergency protocols
Strengthening Institutional Coordination
The event demonstrated strong inter-agency commitment, with participation from the Ministers of Interior, Justice, and Health, along with the Presidential Advisor. This cross-sectoral engagement is crucial for developing cohesive disaster response strategies that span multiple government functions.
Key focus areas for institutional strengthening included:
- Enhancing risk assessment methodologies
- Streamlining customs procedures for humanitarian shipments
- Developing supply chain continuity plans
- Establishing protocols for international assistance coordination
From Theory to Practice
The workshop's practical orientation enabled participants to immediately apply lessons learned. Working groups analyzed current customs processes and proposed specific modifications to accelerate relief operations during crises. These recommendations will inform Comoros' ongoing efforts to modernize its disaster management framework.
The WCO's tailored support reflects its commitment to addressing the specific needs of small island economies. This technical assistance program represents more than temporary capacity building—it establishes sustainable systems that will continue protecting Comoros' citizens and economy against future shocks.