By: Aminata Sesay
The National Revenue Authority (NRA), through its Customs Service Department, has intensified efforts to enhance stakeholder engagement at border crossings. This was evident in a recent meeting held at the Sanya Border Crossing Point in Tabaka Chiefdom, Karene District. Led by Assistant Commissioner for Border Controls and Management, John Bernard Amara, the initiative focused on improving collaboration between customs officials, security agencies, and local stakeholders to boost revenue collection, facilitate trade, and strengthen border management.
The engagement brought together representatives from the security sector, including the Office of National Security (ONS), police, and military, as well as key community figures such as the Paramount Chief, Chiefdom Speaker, youth leaders, and women’s groups. Discussions centred on the role of customs officers, the importance of tax compliance, and the challenges faced at the Sanya Border Crossing.
During his address, Assistant Commissioner Amara underscored the critical role of customs in national development, emphasising that effective revenue collection is essential for funding government projects and services. He acknowledged the challenges customs officers face, including smuggling, tax evasion, and limited cooperation from some business owners and community members. He urged stakeholders to view tax compliance as a shared responsibility that contributes to the nation’s economic growth.
One of the key issues raised by community members was their perception that the customs officer stationed at the Sanya Border Crossing Point was excessively strict, making engagement with local businesses and residents difficult. They argued that a more collaborative approach was needed to foster better working relationships while ensuring compliance with tax laws.
In response, Assistant Commissioner Amara clarified that customs officers are mandated to enforce tax regulations and prevent illegal activities at border points. However, he also stressed the need for a balanced approach that allows customs staff to engage constructively with the local community. He urged the community to support the customs officer’s efforts in revenue collection while advising the officer to work amicably with stakeholders and security agencies to improve cooperation.
Security sector representatives, including Major Kallon, echoed Amara’s sentiments, calling on the community to maintain peace and support government initiatives. He reminded attendees that effective border management requires collaboration between law enforcement agencies and the communities they serve.
The meeting concluded on a positive note, with community stakeholders expressing gratitude for the engagement and pledging their support for customs operations, provided that officers engage them respectfully and transparently. The commitment from both sides signalled a step toward improving relations between customs authorities and border communities.
Following the stakeholder meeting, Assistant Commissioner Amara visited other checkpoints in the region to assess revenue collection and border control efforts. He motivated customs officers to remain diligent in their duties and reinforced the importance of upholding professionalism and integrity.
Additionally, he held a brief meeting with Guinean security officials at the border, who welcomed the initiative and emphasised the importance of cross-border collaboration. Strengthening ties between Sierra Leonean and Guinean border officials is expected to improve security, curb smuggling, and facilitate legal trade.
The engagement at Sanya Border Crossing Point highlights the NRA’s ongoing efforts to enhance border management as a key component of national revenue collection. By fostering collaboration between customs officials, security agencies, and community stakeholders, the authority aims to create a more efficient and transparent system that benefits both the government and local communities.
