In a major step toward regional integration, the South Sudan Revenue Authority (SSRA) and the Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) aimed at boosting customs cooperation between the two nations. The agreement, inked in Juba, witnessed by high-level delegations from the two countries, outlines a comprehensive framework to tackle customs challenges, improve information sharing, and embrace digital transformation.

The MoU was signed by Hon. Africano Mande Gedima, Commissioner General of SSRA, and Hon. Humphrey Wattanga, Commissioner General of KRA, in the presence of dignitaries from both countries. The agreement signifies a renewed commitment to strengthening cross-border trade and customs efficiency, laying the foundation for a more integrated and streamlined customs process.

“This Memorandum of Understanding is a critical framework that paves the way for deeper engagements between the South Sudan Revenue Authority and Kenya Revenue Authority,” stated Mande Gedima. “It represents a strategic achievement in line with the goals of our Five-Year Strategic Plan.”

One of the key issues addressed in the MoU is the delay of goods destined for South Sudan at the Port of Mombasa, a major bottleneck for the country’s import sector. “Cargo destined for South Sudan has either been held or delayed by unauthorized actors,” Mande stated.

The move will significantly mitigate barriers to trade between the two countries, address cases, including the challenges, such as delays, excessive charges, and bureaucratic setbacks, which were recently aired by Kenyan clearing agents.

Further, the MoU outlines several critical areas of cooperation, including mutual assistance in customs operations, digital integration, and capacity building. Both revenue authorities aim to leverage modern technologies to streamline operations and enhance security. Mande emphasized that the MoU will unlock new opportunities for collaboration, benefiting both South Sudan and Kenya.

Wattanga echoed these sentiments, calling the MoU a vital step toward combating customs offences and supporting cross-border trade. “By sharing vital information, we will combat customs offences and enhance security,” he said. “Instruments such as the World Customs Organization’s Mutual Administrative Assistance agreements provide a solid framework for this collaboration.”

The commissioner further highlighted the MoU’s focus on digital transformation. “Embracing digital transformation is essential to streamline operations, improve efficiency, and enhance transparency,” he stated. With the rapid shift toward digital platforms, both SSRA and KRA are prioritizing modernization of customs systems to keep up with the pace of global trade.

Combating smuggling also remains a top priority. Both authorities are committed to joint operations and intelligence sharing to tackle the growing risks posed by smuggling, which threatens public safety and economic stability. “A multi-faceted approach is necessary to effectively combat smuggling,” Wattanga noted.

The MoU also emphasizes capacity building, with the Kenya School of Revenue Administration offering training opportunities to customs officers from both countries. “Capacity building is key to effective customs operations in the East African Community (EAC),” Wattanga added.

As global trade continues to expand, both South Sudan and Kenya are poised to benefit from this enhanced cooperation. “By fostering mutual assistance, embracing digital transformation, combating smuggling, and supporting cross-border trade, we will create a safer, more efficient, and prosperous trading environment in the EAC,” Wattanga concluded.

The MoU is expected to strengthen ties between the two nations, improve customs operations, and set a new standard for regional economic integration in East Africa.

“By sharing vital information, we will combat customs offences and enhance security,” Hon. Humphrey Wattanga, Commissioner General of Kenya Revenue Association (KRA).