A weeklong training workshop on Customs and Communication officially commenced on Monday, April 28 in Ganta, bringing together 57 customs officers from across the country

The initiative is aimed at strengthening the technical capacity, professionalism, and communication skills of customs personnel to meet both national expectations and international standards.

The training was opened by the Assistant Commissioner of Customs for Technical Services, Mr. William L. Buku, who described the session as a refresher course designed to keep officers up-to-date with current developments in the customs field.

He urged all participants to give the training their full attention, highlighting its importance in enhancing the performance and credibility of Liberia’s customs operations.

In his remarks, Mr. Buku emphasized the need for Customs Officers to maintain a high level of professionalism and integrity.

He noted that customs officers must present themselves in a manner that upholds the dignity of the institution and helps to counteract the negative perceptions often held by the public.

He also encouraged officers to use the training as an opportunity to build relationships, share experiences, and learn from one another, fostering greater unity and cooperation across various customs posts.

A major focus of the training is the increasing role of technology in customs work. Mr. Buku stressed the urgent need for officers to embrace digital tools and computer-based systems, especially as customs processes across the ECOWAS sub region continue to be automated.

He pointed out that as members of the regional bloc, Liberia must align its customs practices with these changes to ensure efficiency and integration.

The training will include instruction on the use and application of automated platforms such as ASYCUDA, which is central to declaration submission and payment processes.

The Assistant Commissioner also underscored the importance of discipline as the foundation of any successful customs service.

He urged officers to take the training seriously, participate fully in both theoretical and practical sessions, and approach each day with a hunger to learn, reminding them that knowledge is never wasted.

Participants will be taken through a wide range of topics critical to their roles, including customs dress code, integrated border management, classification and valuation, maintaining composure under pressure, tax calculation methods, and the review of executive border procedures and practice notes.

The training will also cover updated excise and GST rates and how these are applied in daily operations.

An essential component of the training is a communications segment facilitated by the LRA’s Communications, Media and Public Affairs (CMPA) Section.

Led by CMPA Manager Mr. Danicius Kaihenneh Sengbeh, this module is designed to build the communication skills of customs officers, particularly in their interactions with the public and the media.

Mr. Sengbeh emphasized that strong communication is critical to the effective discharge of their duties, especially in high-pressure or challenging environments.

Officers will be trained on mastering live radio communication, staying professional in the face of public scrutiny, and communicating effectively in difficult or sensitive situations.

The overall aim of the communications training is to enhance public engagement and build trust in the LRA’s customs operations.

This workshop marks another step in the LRA’s broader commitment to strengthening institutional performance, modernizing customs services, and improving the professional image and effectiveness of its officers at all levels.