By Mustapha Jallow
At least 20 staff members of the Gambia Revenue Authority (GRA) have commenced a four-day intensive training aimed at enhancing customs efficiency through the World Customs Organization’s (WCO) Performance Measurement Mechanism (PMM).
It was organized by the GRA with support from the WCO.
The training, held at a local hotel in Kololi, brought together GRA officials, customs officers, and expert facilitators from the WCO.
In his address, Yankuba Darboe, Commissioner General of the GRA, described the PMM as a critical framework that enables customs authorities to assess performance, enhance efficiency, and improve service quality in international trade.
“The WCO PMM is a vital tool for streamlining customs procedures, ensuring smooth trade operations, and maintaining security and compliance with global standards,” he stated.
Darboe highlighted six key aspects of the PMM, emphasizing its role in helping customs administrations benchmark performance against international standards, identify areas for improvement, and refine processes. He noted that the mechanism utilises performance indicators such as customs clearance times, compliance rates, revenue collection, enforcement activities, and trade facilitation.
“These indicators provide both qualitative and quantitative insights into customs operations,” he said.
He further explained that customs administrations conduct self-assessments using the PMM, followed by review processes to validate results and identify necessary improvements.
“Based on performance evaluations, customs authorities can implement reforms, with the WCO offering capacity-building programs, technical assistance, and guidance to enhance operational efficiency,” Darboe added.
He also stressed that the PMM aligns with the WCO SAFE Framework of Standards and other international conventions, ensuring customs operations effectively facilitate trade, enhance security, and ensure compliance.
On a global scale, Commissioner General Darboe underscored the WCO’s encouragement for countries to adopt the PMM, noting its potential to standardise performance measurement across regions, boost global trade efficiency, reduce barriers, and strengthen security.
