The Liberia Revenue Authority (LRA) has intensified its drive toward customs modernization with the conclusion of a weeklong technical training program for frontline customs officers in Ganta, Nimba County. The initiative, spearheaded by the Customs Department, is designed to strengthen operational capacity, improve border management, and boost domestic revenue mobilization through more efficient and standardized procedures.
The in-service training brought together customs officers from multiple Customs Business Offices nationwide. Participants were immersed in critical areas of customs administration, including Customs Valuation, Harmonized System (HS) Classification, and Rules of Origin. Practical sessions on customs examinations provided hands-on guidance, ensuring officers are better equipped to apply laws consistently and deliver quality service at border posts.
The program also included staff from the Communication Section and Taxpayer Services Division (TPSD), broadening institutional knowledge of customs operations. Their participation is expected to enhance taxpayer education and stakeholder engagement through more accurate and effective communication.
Delivering closing remarks, Edwin F. Kendema, Assistant Commissioner for Customs Ports Operations, praised participants for their active engagement and reaffirmed that continuous professional development remains a strategic priority.
“This training is part of our broader modernization strategy to align with international standards, strengthen compliance, and enhance revenue mobilization,” Kendema emphasized. He noted that the initiative reflects the Customs Department’s commitment to building a technically competent workforce capable of safeguarding Liberia’s borders while facilitating legitimate trade.
Speaking on behalf of the participants, Pandora Gbahn, Customs Collector at the Ganta Customs Business Office, described the program as timely and impactful.
“This refresher training has strengthened our understanding of key customs procedures and enhanced our ability to apply them effectively in our daily work. We are confident the knowledge gained will improve our service delivery,” she said.
The first cohort comprised 35 customs officers, with a second group of 35 scheduled to participate in the next phase of the nationwide professional development program. The initiative aims to ensure standardized technical training across Liberia, promoting operational excellence and consistent application of customs procedures.
By investing in sustained professional development, the LRA is building a highly skilled, accountable customs workforce. The program is expected to significantly improve compliance, facilitate legitimate trade, and strengthen border security — all while contributing to sustainable domestic revenue mobilization and national development.
As Liberia continues to integrate into global trade systems, the modernization of customs operations remains central to economic growth and governance. The Ganta training underscores the LRA’s determination to professionalize its workforce, harmonize procedures with international best practices, and position customs as a cornerstone of national development.
With more cohorts set to follow, the LRA’s modernization agenda is not just a policy directive but a practical, ongoing transformation of Liberia’s customs administration.
