Rwanda Revenue Authority (RRA) today hosted the opening of a two-day Single Customs Territory (SCT) Cluster Meeting under the Northern Corridor Integration Projects, bringing together regional stakeholders to strengthen trade facilitation and economic cooperation across East Africa.
The meeting was officially opened by Ronald Niwenshuti, Commissioner General of the Rwanda Revenue Authority, who emphasized the importance of regional collaboration in accelerating economic transformation through efficient customs systems and infrastructure development.
The initiative forms part of broader programmes under the East African Community aimed at promoting economic growth, reducing trade barriers, and enhancing connectivity among member states.
The Northern Corridor, which stretches approximately 1,700 kilometres from the Port of Mombasa in Kenya to Rwanda, Uganda, South Sudan, and Burundi, serves as one of the region’s most critical trade and transport routes. Through the Single Customs Territory framework, partner states seek to simplify customs clearance procedures, reduce cargo transit time, and lower the cost of doing business across borders.
Speaking during the opening session, Commissioner General Ronald Niwenshuti noted that the SCT initiative continues to play a significant role in improving regional trade efficiency and strengthening economic integration among partner states.
“The Single Customs Territory meeting provides an important platform to assess the progress made so far, identify existing challenges, and develop strategic actions that will support sustainable economic growth along the Northern Corridor,” he said.
Delegates attending the meeting are expected to review the implementation status of key customs and trade facilitation measures, discuss emerging challenges affecting cross-border trade, and propose solutions to improve coordination among customs administrations and other border agencies.
The discussions will also focus on enhancing infrastructure cooperation, harmonizing customs procedures, and leveraging digital systems to improve cargo movement and trade competitiveness within the region.
Regional leaders and trade experts have consistently highlighted the Northern Corridor Integration Projects as a key driver of economic integration, investment promotion, and regional stability. Improved efficiency along the corridor is expected to benefit businesses, transporters, and consumers by reducing delays and increasing market access across East Africa.
The two-day meeting underscores the continued commitment of regional partners to deepen cooperation and build resilient, sustainable economies through strengthened trade and customs integration.
