Customs experts from The Gambia and Senegal gathered in Banjul to strengthen cooperation and improve customs operations along their shared borders. The two-day meeting was a continuation of ongoing efforts to streamline trade, enhance security, and promote economic integration between the neighboring countries.
The gathering aimed to review the progress made since the previous bilateral meeting held in Dakar last year, where key resolutions were adopted to promote smoother and more secure customs procedures. Both delegations expressed a shared commitment to building trust and efficiency in handling cross-border trade.
Speaking at the opening, Commissioner General Yankuba Darboe highlighted the significance of the meeting, stating it marks a crucial step toward turning earlier agreements into action. He stressed that cooperation between the two customs services is essential to improve trade facilitation, protect national borders, and support economic growth on both sides.
“Our shared history and close ties demand that our customs administrations work with transparency and efficiency,” he said. “What we achieve here today will have a direct impact on reducing delays at the borders and boosting our countries’ competitiveness.”
He also emphasized the importance of open dialogue, identifying challenges, and finding workable solutions to ensure that past commitments are fully implemented for the benefit of both nations.
Senegal’s Director General of Customs, Colonel Babacar Mbaye, echoed these sentiments, noting that the meeting reflects the strong will of both governments to build a model partnership. He described the relationship between the two countries as a beacon for the wider West African region, saying their unity could inspire stronger regional integration.
He called on both administrations to maintain high levels of vigilance and collaboration to combat illegal activities such as smuggling and cross-border crime. According to him, the success of regional integration depends on trust, innovation, information sharing, and a unified approach to tackling shared challenges.
Gambia’s Customs Board Chair, Dawda Ndure, added that bridging gaps and encouraging regular communication between customs teams is key to sustainable progress.
A statement from the Minister of Finance, delivered on his behalf, reiterated the government’s support for the full implementation of the Dakar agreements. He emphasized the importance of cooperation in stopping the flow of restricted items and enhancing data exchange between the two countries.
The meeting closed with a call for continued commitment to dialogue, excellence, and the shared vision of a seamless and secure trade environment for both nations.
