27th January, 2025
Customs House, Cline Town, Freetown
The National Revenue Authority (NRA) marked International Customs Day on January 27, 2025, with celebrations at the Customs House in Cline Town, Freetown, as well as in Gbalamuya-Kambia, Lungi, and Jendema. The event, centered around the theme “Customs Delivering on its Commitment to Efficiency, Security and Prosperity,” highlighted customs’ critical role in facilitating international trade and safeguarding borders. This global observance, traditionally held on January 26th, underscores the contributions of customs officials in ensuring smooth cross-border trade, security, and regulatory compliance.
The main event at the Customs House featured addresses from prominent figures, including Deputy Commissioner General 2, Mr. Gerald P.H. Ganda, who moderated the occasion. Representatives from key institutions, such as the Sierra Leone Ports and Harbour Authority (SLPHA), Nectar, Freetown Terminal Bollore, Integrated Trade Services (ITS), Association of Clearing and Forwarding Agencies (ACFA), and Sierra Leone Importers Association also participated. These discussions emphasized the collaborative efforts required for efficient customs operations.
Commissioner of Customs Services Department, Mr. Tennyson Bio, dedicated the celebration to taxpayers and stressed the need for embracing digital advancements to streamline customs processes. Deputy Commissioner General 1, Mrs. Ann Marie Baby Harding, highlighted the growing importance of customs in revenue generation and adapting to the challenges of digital trade. She reaffirmed the NRA’s commitment to enhancing transparency and efficiency in trade facilitation. Similarly, the NRA Board Chairperson, Mr. Kabineh M. Kallon, advocated for legislative reforms to align customs operations with international standards, and urged customs officers to uphold professionalism.
Guest Speaker, Mr. Abdulai Caulker, National Security Coordinator, Office of National Security (ONS), emphasized customs’ role in international trade and the NRA’s significant contribution to national revenue mobilization under the current Commissioner General’s leadership, Mrs. Jeneba J. Bangura. The celebration of International Customs Day serves as a powerful reminder of the indispensable role customs administrations play in fostering global trade, ensuring security, and driving economic prosperity in a dynamic world.
©️NATIONAL REVENUE AUTHORITY
PUBLIC AFFAIRS AND TAX EDUCATION UNIT
RENSIS HOUSE, 5 GLOUCESTER STREET, FREETOWN