The Commissioner General of the Tanzania Revenue Authority (TRA), Yusuph Juma Mwenda, has described it as a great honour for Tanzania to host the World Customs Organization East and Southern Africa (WCO ESA) Regional Meetings, bringing together customs experts from 24 member countries to discuss strategies for strengthening border security, facilitating trade, and enhancing government revenue collection.

Speaking as the Guest of Honour during the meeting held on Monday, May 11, 2026, at Golden Tulip Zanzibar Resort, Mr. Mwenda emphasized the critical role customs departments play in protecting national borders against illegal activities including drug trafficking, unlawful importation of weapons, and smuggling.

He noted that while customs authorities are tasked with safeguarding countries from such threats, regional cooperation remains essential in addressing these challenges without disrupting legitimate trade and economic activities.

Mr. Mwenda further stated that the regional meeting focused on exploring modern customs systems and innovative solutions aimed at simplifying trade procedures to ensure traders conduct their businesses efficiently without unnecessary delays.

He highlighted that the Tanzania Revenue Authority, through its Tanzania Customs Integrated System (TANCIS), has continued to modernize customs operations by streamlining procedures and improving transparency in service delivery to customers and stakeholders.

The TRA Commissioner General also pointed out that many countries continue to face challenges related to tax evasion, including under-declaration of goods’ value, corruption, and unethical conduct among some officials, all of which negatively affect government revenue collection and fair business competition.

He therefore stressed the importance of strengthening risk management systems and adopting advanced technologies to effectively combat such challenges and improve enforcement capabilities.

In addition, Mr. Mwenda called on WCO ESA member states to continue investing in modern customs infrastructure, anti-smuggling equipment, and cross-border information sharing systems to enhance interoperability and improve the efficiency of customs enforcement across the region.

He also urged citizens and the business community to cooperate with TRA by reporting dishonest traders involved in smuggling and tax evasion, while reaffirming the Government’s commitment to improving the business environment through tax reforms and transparent customs procedures aimed at facilitating cargo clearance and improving taxpayer services.