It will operate along the same pattern as the recently opened 15 similar border posts already established within the East African Community (EAC) bloc. Two other jointly operated border posts linking the region with neighbouring blocs are being set up at Moyale along the Kenya/Ethiopia border and Gisenyi on Rwanda/DR Congo boundary. “New OSBPs are being established to link the Community with other blocs because our trade is not limited to East Africa”, said Stephen Analo from the EAC secretariat. He told officials from Tanzania and Kenya manning the Sirari/Isebania border route last week that EAC the new unified borders would play the same role; enhancing trade. “If we don’t enhance trade with our neighbours, we will end up with goods clogged at outer borders”, he said at the end training of the officials manning border operations. Mr. Analo, a tax expert, urged officers from the two countries where such facilities are being set up to cooperate fully so as to tap in the benefits of unified border operations such as increased tax collections. “Integrated border coordination is not a foreign concept. It is the same all over the world”, he said, noting that they are necessary due to increased movement of goods, services and people across EA borders. At the jointly operated border posts, Immigration, Customs, bureaux of standards, phytosanitary inspections, goods clearance and allied services are done under one roof.

Analysts say when fully operationalized, revenue collection and efficiency of movement of goods and people would improve by between 30 and 40 per cent.

Also to be achieved is a 30 per cent reduction time in exiting one country and entering another. They will serve as catalysts in promoting cross-border trade within the bloc. Edna Chuku from the Tanzania ministry of Foreign Affairs and EAC ministry said efficiency gains from operationalized OSBPs has seen improved collection of taxes. “Efficient borders we are setting up are aimed to facilitate international trade, investment and economic growth”, she said.

On the Tanzanian side, similar unified border posts planned with countries outside EAC would be established along the borders with Mozambique, Malawi and DR Congo.

Source The Citizen