Improved Customs systems enhance efficiency

Africa offers many
opportunities to South
African-based companies
as its much sought after
resources continue to
attract developers from all
over the world.
According to Kitty
Hewitt, owner of Botswana
Consolidators, this has led
countries to improve their
systems to facilitate the
movement of cargo.
“In Botswana, for
example, the new EDI
system implemented by
Customs was done in such
a manner that there were
very few – if any – hiccups
during the implementation
phase,” says Hewitt. “One
can only compliment
the staff and officials for
making the process as
smooth as possible and
for being so professional
during a time many thought
would be very difficult.”
Hewitt says that by
modernising customs
operations African
countries are ensuring
they have the systems in
place that will facilitate
the easy flow of cargo.
“That is crucial as it is not
only more efficient, but
also faster which results in
fewer delays and a speedy
process all round.”
This, says Hewitt, is
extremely important in the
African context as a good,
reliable service offering
makes all the difference.
“As infrastructure and
systems improve, so do the
service levels. It benefits
everyone.”