This archive report was first published on 30 July 2019.
July 30, 2019
Uganda's Customs Chief Dicksons Kateshumbwa has taken on a new role as chairman of the World Customs Organisation Council, a position that has put the country on the global stage.
As the first African country to chair the Council in its 67-year history, Uganda has earned a vote of confidence from the international community.
Kateshumbwa believes that this position will boost Uganda's image, tourism, and exports, as well as provide opportunities for the country's exporters to grow their business.
The World Customs Organisation processes 98% of global trade, and Kateshumbwa plans to use this platform to boost Uganda's exports and general trade with other countries.
He also aims to grow the capacity of Uganda's Customs staff and implement the World Customs Organisation's strategic plan 2019-2022, which includes goals such as trade facilitation, capacity building, and managing supply chains.
Kateshumbwa wants to enforce a harmonised system that classifies all products globally, simplify the current system, and promote trade, trade facilitation, and women in trade.
He also intends to increase intra-Africa trade and capacity building for developing countries.
When asked if his focus on Africa and developing countries makes him a biased chairman, Kateshumbwa replied that he is bringing everyone on board and encouraging countries to participate.
He believes that trade facilitation is a key issue for Africa, with the continent's intra-Africa trade standing at below 15%, compared to Asia's 60%.
Colonial borders create barriers to trade, and Kateshumbwa wants to simplify Customs procedures to expedite the movement and clearance of goods.
He also wants to increase the capacity building for developing countries and promote trade, trade facilitation, and women in trade.
Uganda's Customs operations are making good progress, with reforms such as regional cargo tracking, upgraded Customs systems, and the establishment of a one-roof 24-hour centre.
However, Kateshumbwa acknowledges that smuggling will never be eliminated, but his goal is to suppress it, which he has done in the case of round tripping on Lake Albert.
