By Aminata Abu Bakarr Kamara
The National Revenue Authority (NRA) has on Monday the 25th August 2025, officially broken ground on the construction of a state-of-the-art Customs Border Control and Management facility at the Jendema crossing point, marking a significant milestone in Sierra Leone’s efforts to modernize its border infrastructure.
The project, entirely funded by the NRA, is aimed at boosting trade facilitation, strengthening security, and enhancing revenue mobilization at one of the country’s busiest border posts.
Speaking at the ceremony, Commissioner General Jeneba J. Bangura hailed the initiative as a “landmark step” in streamlining cross-border trade and improving customs operations.
“This facility will play a pivotal role in improving efficiency, facilitating business, and reinforcing cooperation between Sierra Leone and Liberia,” Bangura said. She further noted that the investment aligns with government’s vision for sustainable economic growth and regional integration.
The Jendema crossing, which has witnessed rapid growth in business activity, has long been in need of improved infrastructure to handle increasing trade volumes. Bangura explained that the decision to embark on the project was driven by the need to expand the country’s revenue base while creating a more conducive environment for legitimate trade.
The modern facility will be equipped with advanced systems, including digital tax administration through ASYCUDA WORLD, real-time border monitoring tools, and upgraded office spaces for customs officers, traders, and other stakeholders.
Authorities say the new infrastructure will drastically reduce clearance times, ease the movement of goods and services, and encourage higher trade volumes across the Mano River Union region. It is also expected to improve transparency in revenue collection and bolster border security.
Construction is expected to be completed within three months, a timeline that underscores the NRA’s commitment to fast-tracking reforms and delivering tangible results.
Observers say the initiative marks a decisive step in positioning Sierra Leone as a more competitive player in regional trade, while also strengthening bilateral ties with neighboring Liberia.
Copyright –Published in Expo Times News on Wednesday,27th August 2025 (ExpoTimes News – Expo Media Group (expomediasl.com)
