In South Sudan, scanners could cut Nimule customs officers from 600 to 50
By the AFREEQUE newsroom, based on Eye Radio
The Commissioner General of the South Sudan National Revenue Authority (SSRA), Rizig Dominic Samuel, says cargo scanners at the Nimule border post could reduce the number of customs officers from more than 600 to around 50. He plans to raise the matter with the Minister of Finance on his return to Juba to secure this equipment quickly, according to Eye Radio.
The Commissioner General of the South Sudan National Revenue Authority (SSRA), Rizig Dominic Samuel, says the introduction of modern scanners at the Nimule border post could reduce the number of customs officers required, from more than 600 to around 50, according to Eye Radio. He explains that manual inspection of cargo slows operations and increases the burden on officers, who sometimes have to unload, carry and inspect goods by hand.
Mr Rizig made these remarks during his first official field visit to Nimule, where he is assessing revenue collection, customs operations and staff working conditions. He believes the government should prioritise the purchase of scanners, and said the SSRA will speak with the Minister of Finance on his return to Juba to secure this equipment as quickly as possible. He also praised the difficult working conditions of customs officers.
The two-day visit brings together senior officials from the Directorate of Civil Registration, Nationality, Passports and Immigration, the Criminal Investigation Department, the South Sudan Armed Forces, the National Security Service and the police. Nimule is the country’s main trade gateway with neighbouring Uganda.
