ZIMRA is set to continuously improve efficiency and operational effectiveness following the handover of Information Communication Technology (ICT) equipment by the African Capacity Building Foundation (ACBF) for use by border agencies. The handover ceremony was held on 20 April 2016 at Authority’s Headquarters in Harare.
ZIMRA received the boost of 34 thin clients and 17 desktop machines for the single window project where Government agencies working with the Authority will have access into the ZIMRA system for operational synergies and efficiency.
Officially handing over the equipment on behalf of ACBF Executive Secretary Professor Emmanuel Nnadozie, the Senior Programme Officer for the organisation, Dr Folasade Lilian Ayonrinde, said that ACBF has partnered with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Government of Zimbabwe to improve regional integration and national cohesiveness.
“The core challenge of many countries including Zimbabwe, is how to improve the processes of moving goods and services across national boundaries, building and operating efficient border posts and Customs procedures,” said Dr Ayonrinde.
“Improving border posts and Customs procedures will reduce the cost and delays incurred by commercial companies and enhance trade competitiveness, alongside boosting government revenues and accelerating economic development,” added Dr Ayonrinde.
Speaking at the same occasion, Secretary for Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Joey Bimha underscored the significance of the donation that came through the partnership between the Ministry and ACBF.
“Cognisant of the importance of efficient border management systems to the overall regional integration agenda, it was decided that part of the support from ACBF be directed towards the purchase of computers for ZIMRA and other border agencies. This decision was taken following the recognition that the growth of regional trade depends, to a large extent, on reducing shipment time and transaction costs while increasing efficiency.
We are confident that the new equipment will assist in the enhancement systems to promote integration and the implementation of the single window concept aimed at bringing all border agencies together to simplify Customs clearance procedures,” said Ambassador Bimha.
Receiving the computers on behalf of the Authority, the Acting Commissioner General, Mrs Anna Mutombodzi, conveyed her appreciation for the timely assistance.
“We are very elated by this gesture and we hope that this donation will increase the confidence of our employees and other border agencies and thus make a great impact in facilitating trade,” said Mrs Mutombodzi.
Present during the ceremony were Ministry of Foreign Affairs officials, ZIMRA Executive Management, Management and Staff. The relationship between ACBF started way back in 1991 with the Foundation supporting several projects in Zimbabwe through the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.