WCO Evaluates Ugandas CITES Enforcement Capabilities

WCO Evaluates Ugandas CITES Enforcement Capabilities

In 2017, the World Customs Organization (WCO) conducted a diagnostic assessment of the Uganda Revenue Authority's capacity to enforce the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES). The assessment utilized an institutional assessment tool, combined with field visits and interviews, aiming to enhance Uganda Customs' ability to combat illegal wildlife trade. The assessment findings will guide future cooperation between the WCO and the Uganda Revenue Authority, contributing to global biodiversity conservation efforts.

Americas Caribbean Boost Customs Capacity with Upgraded Contact System

Americas Caribbean Boost Customs Capacity with Upgraded Contact System

The second meeting of National Contact Points for Customs Capacity Building in the Americas and the Caribbean aimed to deepen understanding of WCO capacity building programs, strengthen the role of National Contact Points, and promote regional cooperation. The meeting emphasized the importance of National Contact Points in needs assessment, project coordination, and experience sharing, as well as the ROCB's role as an engine for regional capacity building. Future efforts will focus on strengthening the National Contact Point network, optimizing needs assessment processes, promoting regional cooperation, and enhancing customs capacity.

Revised Kyoto Convention Streamlines Global Customs Procedures

Revised Kyoto Convention Streamlines Global Customs Procedures

The 16th session of the Revised Kyoto Convention Management Committee reviewed and adopted the RKCVWG's interim report, laying the groundwork for a comprehensive review of the RKC. The meeting highlighted the crucial role of the RKC in promoting trade facilitation and called for active participation in the implementation and revision of the Convention to adapt to new global trade landscapes and challenges. The committee emphasized the need for continuous improvement and adaptation to ensure the RKC remains relevant and effective in facilitating international trade.

Senegal Customs Modernizes HR with WCO Backing Targets Regional Benchmark

Senegal Customs Modernizes HR with WCO Backing Targets Regional Benchmark

With WCO support through the WACAM project, Senegalese Customs is advancing human resource modernization. They've completed personnel planning tools and secured high-level support. The goal is to validate and implement a competency-based approach by December 15, 2015. This initiative aims to enhance customs efficiency, employee satisfaction, and international competitiveness. It is expected to serve as a model for West Africa, demonstrating the positive impact of strategic human resource management within customs administrations.

WCO Enhances Customs Training Across West and Central Africa

WCO Enhances Customs Training Across West and Central Africa

The WCO-WACAM project aims to establish a regional pool of human resources experts for Customs administrations in West and Central Africa. Through capacity building, tool development, and follow-up support, the project enhances HR management within Customs departments, ultimately improving their efficiency and competitiveness. It emphasizes a competency-based HRM approach and develops tools such as job catalogs, competency frameworks, and job descriptions. These resources lay the foundation for Customs modernization and contribute to more effective and professional Customs operations in the region.

WCO ASAPRA Partner to Simplify Customs Enhance Trade Compliance

WCO ASAPRA Partner to Simplify Customs Enhance Trade Compliance

The World Customs Organization (WCO) and the Association of Professional Customs Brokers of the Americas (ASAPRA) are deepening cooperation to enhance trade facilitation and compliance through information sharing, training collaboration, and technological innovation. This initiative aims to reduce compliance costs for businesses, improve customs clearance efficiency, and enhance global competitiveness. By fostering a smoother and more efficient trade environment, this partnership will help businesses seize trade opportunities and build a shared future.

Uganda Revenue Authority Adopts Datadriven Performance System

Uganda Revenue Authority Adopts Datadriven Performance System

The Uganda Revenue Authority (URA) sought WCO technical assistance to enhance its performance management system. The WCO assessed URA's current state and recommended improving performance indicator systems, enhancing data analysis capabilities, optimizing the application of performance evaluation results, and deepening the application of ASYCUDA/ASYPM systems. The report emphasizes that high-level support, full participation, and continuous improvement are key to success. The goal is to help URA improve operational efficiency and service levels. This includes refining KPIs and leveraging data for informed decision-making.

Cameroon Customs Strengthens Leadership for Strategic Reform

Cameroon Customs Strengthens Leadership for Strategic Reform

In 2015, the World Customs Organization (WCO) assisted Cameroon Customs in enhancing its leadership capabilities, regaining control of outsourced functions, and promoting reforms. This support culminated in the "Mbankomo II Declaration," which aims to further support the development of Cameroon Customs. The initiative focused on strengthening internal management and fostering a more effective and autonomous customs administration.

Bolivia Customs Boosts Staff Resilience Via WCOSECO Program

Bolivia Customs Boosts Staff Resilience Via WCOSECO Program

The WCO-SECO GTFP project assisted Bolivian Customs in enhancing stress management skills and team cohesion among its officers. This support helped them navigate the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic. The project recommended establishing a permanent mechanism for stress management and resilience building within the customs administration to ensure continued well-being and effectiveness of customs officers in the face of ongoing and future pressures.

Botswana Enhances Customs Enforcement for Environmental Agreements

Botswana Enhances Customs Enforcement for Environmental Agreements

The World Customs Organization (WCO), in collaboration with the UN Environment Programme and the Basel Convention Secretariat, held a workshop in Botswana to enhance customs officers' awareness and enforcement capabilities regarding multilateral environmental agreements. The workshop covered key issues such as the Basel Convention and the Montreal Protocol, strengthening cooperation between customs and environmental agencies. The WCO will continue to provide technical support to Botswana and other countries in achieving sustainable development goals. This initiative aims to combat illegal trade in environmentally sensitive goods and promote responsible environmental practices.