A total of 191 graduates received the prestigious East African Customs and Freight Forwarding Practicing Certificate (EACFFPC) during a ceremony held in Kigali on Friday, June 21.

Among them were 87 females and 104 males who got certified as professionals in the customs and freight forwarding industry.

The East African Customs and Freight Forwarding Practicing Certificate program developed through a partnership between East Africa Revenue Authorities and National Freight Forwarding Associations, demonstrates the commitment to capacity building.

The initiative, coordinated by the Federation of East African Freight Forwarders Association (FEAFFA), intends to improve cargo processing efficiency, reduce documentation mistakes, and contribute to a reduction in the time and cost of transporting cargo in the East African Community (EAC).

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Juliet Mutoni, the vice chairperson of the National Curriculum Implementation Committee, noted that this career involves special abilities, which is why it is necessary to get such training so that people may operate professionally when they are well-equipped with knowledge.

"This training was designed for people who work on customs to deliver the best and ensure that every export and import is done legally. We are offering it regionally to make sure that the people who work in this field know exactly what they are doing," she said.

David Rwigema, the Chairperson of the Rwanda Freight Forwarders Association, stressed the availability of work options for graduates beyond clearing and forwarding.

He emphasized the importance of their knowledge and expertise in guiding export and import traders, assisting warehouse owners with storage and administration, and assisting procurement specialists and accountants in comprehending trade terms and keeping accurate records.

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Gatera Yvonne, the Assistant Commissioner in Charge of Customs Operations Support at Rwanda Revenue Authority (RRA), emphasized the regulatory role of RRA in improving customs agents&039; professional standards.

"The training helps professionals avoid malpractice in the business, and because Rwanda is a member of several regional integration groups, new agreements on how products pass through customs are always being reached,” Gatera stated.

Rutazihana Justin, a graduate, stated that the EACFFPC program provided a wide range of customs clearance and forwarding skills.

"I obtained all the knowledge I required, and I know it will enable me to provide better services. It will also assist me in my daily business of importing and exporting. In addition, to be licensed, all custom professionals must go through this training," he explained.

The EACFFPC training in Rwanda commenced in July 2008 and was managed under the partnership of RWFFA and RRA after legally establishing a fully equipped training centre.