Imagine a human resource management (HRM) system that transcends administrative functions to become a strategic engine driving organizational objectives. This vision is becoming reality for Senegal's Customs administration through the West African Customs Administration Modernization (MADAO) project, supported by the World Customs Organization (WCO) with funding from the Swedish government.
Capacity Building: From Abidjan to Dakar
The initiative traces back to May 2015 when HR professionals from West and Central African customs administrations convened in Abidjan, Côte d'Ivoire for a MADAO regional workshop. Senegal Customs representatives demonstrated strong reform commitment during these discussions, developing concrete action plans. To consolidate these efforts, MADAO deployed expert teams to Dakar from August 24-27, 2015, providing specialized capacity-building support to develop competency-based HR tools that would transform the HR department into a strategic partner.
Core Tools: Job Architecture and Competency Frameworks
During the Dakar mission, Senegal Customs officials collaborated with WCO experts to refine three foundational HR modernization instruments:
- Job Architecture: A systematic classification framework defining position titles, levels, core responsibilities, and reporting structures. This creates the foundation for recruitment, training, performance management, and compensation systems.
- Competency Model: A dynamic framework identifying the knowledge, skills, and behaviors required for success in specific roles, moving beyond static skill lists to emphasize practical application.
- Position Descriptions: Detailed documentation of role-specific duties, tasks, required qualifications, and performance criteria essential for recruitment, evaluation, and career development.
Leadership Commitment and Implementation Roadmap
Project outcomes were presented to Senegal Customs' Extended Management Committee, comprising all department heads, who expressed strong support for the modernization initiative. The administration aims to finalize and validate all HR planning tools by December 15, 2015, marking a new phase in its HR transformation journey.
Strategic HR Modernization: A Global Trend
Senegal's efforts reflect worldwide HR modernization trends where organizations are transitioning from administrative to strategic HR models. Key principles include:
- Strategic alignment between HR practices and organizational objectives
- Competency-based approaches to talent management
- Data-driven decision making in workforce planning
- Enhanced focus on employee experience and development
The MADAO project represents WCO's broader commitment to customs modernization across West Africa, supporting improved trade efficiency, border security, and economic development. Senegal Customs' HR transformation serves as a model for developing nations seeking to build competitive, strategic public institutions.