Customs and Communication Training Opens

A weeklong training workshop on Customs and Communication commenced on Monday, April 28, in Ganta, Nimba County commercial hub bringing together 57 customs officers from across the country.

The initiative is aimed at strengthening the technical capacity, professionalism and communication skills of customs personnel to meet both national expectations and international standards.

Assistant Commissioner of Customs for Technical Services, William L. Buku, who opened the training, described the session as a refresher course designed to keep officers up-to-date with current developments in the customs field.

He called on all participants to give the training their full attention, highlighting its importance in enhancing the performance and credibility of the country’s customs operations.

He then encouraged officers to use the training as an opportunity to build relationships, share experiences and learn from one another, fostering greater unity and cooperation across various customs posts.

A major focus of the training is the increasing role of technology in customs work to embrace digital tools and computer-based systems, especially as customs processes across the sub region continue to be automated.

The training will include instruction on the use and application of automated platforms such as ASYCUDA, which is central to declaration submission and payment processes.

Participants will be taken through a wide range of topics critical to their roles, including customs dress code, integrated border management, classification and valuation, maintaining composure under pressure, tax calculation methods, and the review of executive border procedures and practice notes.

The training will also cover updated excise and GST rates and how these are applied in daily operations.

An essential component of the training is a communications segment facilitated by the LRA’s Communications, Media and Public Affairs (CMPA) Section.