The Tanzania Revenue Authority (TRA) is hosting, for the first time, the World Customs Organization (WCO) Eastern and Southern Africa (ESA) regional meeting, taking place from May 7 to May 15, 2026, in Zanzibar. The event has brought together more than 100 delegates from member countries across the region.

Speaking at the opening of the preparatory sessions on May 7, 2026, the Commissioner for Customs and Excise, Mr. Juma Bakari, said that hosting the meeting marks a significant milestone for Tanzania. He noted that beyond customs-related benefits, the event is also expected to contribute to the country’s economy, particularly through sectors such as tourism.

He explained that the meeting will bring together representatives from 24 ESA member countries, who will present progress reports on the implementation of resolutions from the previous session, as well as deliberate on the execution of decisions made during the 31st Council meeting held in May 2025 in South Africa.

Mr. Bakari added that the forum will explore innovative customs approaches and receive updates from various customs institutions, all aimed at supporting the effective implementation of the organization’s strategic plan.

“These meetings come at a critical time when Africa has a significant opportunity to expand trade, driven by the growth of regional frameworks and intra-African commerce. Customs administrations must serve as key drivers of this transformation,” he emphasized.

On her part, Dr. Emma Omwenga, Head of the Tax Training School in Kenya and one of the facilitators, highlighted that customs laws are largely harmonized globally, with the main differences among countries being tax rates. She noted that the training aims to strengthen border control while safeguarding public health by ensuring that prohibited goods do not enter respective countries.

The WCO ESA meeting is preceded by a regional trainers’ forum for customs training institutions, followed by the 43rd Technical Experts Committee meeting, and will conclude with the 32nd Council meeting.