US signs agreement with Ghana on sharing customs expertise

The United States Customs and Border Protection (U.S. CBP) and the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) have agreed to facilitate the exchange of customs expertise.

The agreement between the two agencies, will principally commit both governments to share customs expertise in the areas of narcotics and human trafficking, smuggling of hazardous materials, capacity building and technical assistance.

The Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), was signed by Commissioner Gil Kerlikowske (U.S.CBP) of the United States and Ghana’s Commissioner of Customs Division (GRA), John Vianney Kuudamnuru. 

The event followed commitment by both governments to build upon the mutual support that had existed over the years.

Mr. Vianne, lauded the US delegation for the initiative, adding that “it has become more enriched for the customs administration of the two countries to concretise their efforts, hence the signing of the MoU”.

He recalled the numerous capacity building initiatives and programs offered by the US Customs Administration, as well as other US government agencies such as USAID.

Mr. Vianney stated that, a training and logistical Support program is currently on going and that the US has extended it to the GRA officials to set up a Canine Unit.

For his part, Mr. Kerlikowske, said the set up will augment security system at the Ports and Harbours.

He said the exercise was a terrorist detection and apprehension program that detected controlled substances and other contraband.


SOURCE: Ghanaian Times