As global supply chains face unprecedented challenges and customs administrations play an increasingly vital role in economic recovery, the West and Central Africa (WCA) Customs Region welcomes a new leader. The appointment raises questions about how this director will guide regional customs agencies through current challenges and what new opportunities he may bring to foster trade prosperity.
Smooth Transition of Regional Customs Leadership: Mr. Sangho Assumes Office
On December 29, 2020, under the coordination of Mr. Guénolé Mbongo Koumou, Director General of Customs for the Republic of Congo and Vice-Chair of the World Customs Organization (WCO) for the WCA Region, and in close collaboration with the WCO Secretariat, customs directors general from across the region convened a special videoconference. Representatives from 20 of the region’s 23 customs administrations attended the meeting and unanimously elected Mr. Abdel Kader Sangho, Chief Inspector of Mali Customs, as Director of the Regional Office for Capacity Building (ROCB) in Abidjan.
Mr. Sangho, previously certified by the WCO as a Customs Modernization Advisor (CMA) and Mercator Programme Advisor (MPA), succeeds Mr. Ebenezer Tafili, who will assume the role of Deputy Director for Capacity Building at the WCO Secretariat. This appointment marks a new phase in customs cooperation for the WCA region, with Mr. Sangho’s expertise expected to invigorate modernization efforts.
Regional Finance and Audit Committees Confirmed, Annual Budget Initiated
Beyond the leadership transition, the meeting confirmed the membership and terms of reference for the WCA Region’s Finance and Audit Committees. Additionally, the annual budgeting process for regional structural activities was launched, supported by contributions from WCA customs administrations to the Regional Fund.
The establishment of these committees and the budget process reflects the region’s commitment to strengthening governance and optimizing resource allocation—critical steps toward sustainable customs cooperation.
International Customs Day Theme Announced: Focus on Sustainable Supply Chains
During the meeting, the WCO Secretariat presented the theme for International Customs Day on January 26, 2021: “Customs bolstering recovery, renewal, and resilience for a sustainable supply chain.” Aligned with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, the theme underscores customs’ pivotal role in fostering sustainable global trade.
Amid global economic uncertainties, building resilient and sustainable supply chains has become imperative. The theme calls for enhanced collaboration among customs administrations to address challenges and support economic recovery.
Mr. Sangho’s Tenure: Navigating Challenges and Opportunities
Mr. Sangho assumes leadership at a critical juncture for the WCA region. Complex global trade dynamics, rising cross-border crimes such as terrorism and smuggling, and the operationalization of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) present both challenges and opportunities.
Key priorities for Mr. Sangho’s leadership include:
- Advancing Customs Modernization: Driving digital transformation of customs processes to enhance efficiency, reduce trade costs, and improve the business environment through technology adoption and workforce training.
- Strengthening Risk Management: Developing robust risk assessment mechanisms, improving intelligence sharing, and leveraging data analytics to combat smuggling and tax evasion.
- Facilitating Regional Trade: Simplifying clearance procedures, reducing trade barriers, and engaging in regional trade agreements to boost intra-African commerce.
- Investing in Capacity Building: Enhancing the professional skills of customs personnel through structured training programs and knowledge exchanges.
- Deepening International Collaboration: Partnering with the WCO and peer administrations to share best practices and elevate the region’s global standing.
Prospects for WCA Customs Cooperation
Under Mr. Sangho’s stewardship, WCA customs cooperation is poised for progress. By prioritizing modernization, risk management, trade facilitation, and capacity development, the region’s customs administrations can better navigate contemporary challenges and contribute to economic growth.
The coming years may see significant advancements in the WCA’s customs landscape, further integrating Africa’s economies. Mr. Sangho’s leadership could prove instrumental in this transformation.