A workshop aimed to further consolidate GRA’s internal affairs investigation capabilities was conducted from 8 to 12 July 2024 by the WCO Anti-Corruption & Integrity Promotion (A-CIP) Programme, with the assistance of two experts from the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) and Rwanda Revenue Authority (RRA).

During the week, officials from different key GRA functions exchanged views and perspectives on ways to reinforce the three key internal affairs components, namely: corruption, misconduct or malpractice reporting; investigation; and discipline management.

To achieve the expected outcomes, the WCO experts delivered concise informative sessions on different key subjects while focusing on facilitating group discussions. This approach encouraged the participants’ critical thinking, problem solving and solution-orientation.

The Commissioner of Customs, in his opening remarks, emphasized that if preventing corruption was more important than dealing with it after its occurrence, it was crucial for management to take corrective actions when preventive measures had failed. He also highlighted that the internal affairs team was expected to demonstrate leadership in GRA’s fight against corruption, however, it was equally important for the whole administration to give its part as collective action would mark success.

During the closing ceremony, three Assistant-Commissioners shared their views and perspectives on GRA’s fight against corruption and promotion of integrity, expressed their appreciation for the WCO support, and  acknowledged the work done over the week.

The WCO A-CIP Programme provides technical assistance and capacity building support to WCO Member administrations implementing integrity-related initiatives in line with the WCO Revised Arusha Declaration.

For more information, please contact: capacity.building@wcoomd.org.