With the world becoming increasingly interconnected, the role of customs administrations in safeguarding national borders and protecting societies from harmful products cannot be overstated.
Customs agencies are the first line of defence against illicit trade, smuggling, and the infiltration of dangerous goods that threaten public health, safety, and economic stability.
Within the East African region, Kenya has emerged as a leader in implementing innovative strategies to secure borders and protect its citizens.
It has adopted a proactive approach to border security, recognising that the challenges of globalisation, terrorism, and transnational crime require dynamic and adaptive solutions.
Customs officials have been deployed at all gazetted points of entry, including airports, seaports, and land borders. Partnerships with development partners such as the World Customs Organization (WCO), Trademark Africa and the World Bank have enabled the installation of scanners, surveillance systems, and other tools that enhance the efficiency and accuracy of inspections.
For example, the use of non-intrusive inspection technology at border points has allowed customs officials to detect concealed contraband without the need for physical searches, thereby speeding up the clearance process while maintaining security.
Collaboration with customs administrations the East Africa Community (EAC), such as those in Tanzania and Uganda has been instrumental in enhancing surveillance and intelligence sharing.
For instance, the collaboration between Kenya and Uganda at the Malaba border post has led to the interception of smuggled goods, including counterfeit pharmaceuticals that pose a significant risk to public health.
Additionally, Kenya Customs works closely with other government agencies, such as the National Police Service and the Kenya Wildlife Service, to conduct patrols and surveillance along porous borderlines.
This inter-agency cooperation has been particularly effective in addressing challenges such as wildlife trafficking and the smuggling of hazardous materials. Kenya’s diverse border dynamics require a tailored approach to customs operations.
For example, some borders are prone to insecurity and smuggling thereby demanding heightened vigilance and specialised strategies. In contrast, others which see significant cross-border trade require a focus on facilitating legitimate trade while maintaining security. Kenya Customs has demonstrated remarkable adaptability in addressing these varying challenges.
The aspiration is to leverage technologies such as drones and body worn cameras to further enhance customs operations. Drones can provide real-time aerial surveillance of remote and inaccessible border areas, while body worn cameras can ensure transparency and accountability in customs operations. These technologies will not only improve efficiency but also enhance the accuracy of inspections and reduce the risk of human error.
The writer is the Commissioner Customs & Border Control at the Kenya Revenue Authority.
