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The Gambia is a country that thrives on trade and commerce, and its strategic location makes it a hub for goods moving between West African nations. However, this advantage has also made it a target for those looking to exploit the system. In recent years, a significant challenge has emerged at the borders, particularly with the transport of goods from Senegal. The crux of the issue lies in the evasion of customs duties, which has led to a substantial loss in revenue for the Gambian government. But with the introduction of eTracking by Nick TC-Scan (Gambia) Ltd, the tide is turning. The Problem: Evasion of Customs Duties For years, some business owners have found ways to bypass the payment of customs duties by exploiting a loophole in the system. They would import goods from Senegal, claiming that these items were merely in transit and not intended for sale in the Gambia. To further muddy the waters, they hired Senegalese truck drivers to transport these goods, with the understanding that they would not be held liable for duties if the goods were indeed crossing into Senegal. However, the reality was different. Many of these goods never left the Gambia. Instead, they were offloaded in the Kombos—Gambia’s largest metropolitan area—where they could be sold without the required duties being paid. This not only deprived the Gambian government of much-needed revenue but also created an uneven playing field for honest businesses that followed the rules. The Role of Corruption The evasion of duties was not solely the result of deceptive practices by some business owners and truck drivers. Unfortunately, corruption within the system also played a significant role. Some Customs officers, who were tasked with escorting these trucks to the Senegalese border, were often bribed to turn a blind eye. These officers would make millions of dalasi annually by allowing the trucks to deviate from their designated routes, further exacerbating the problem. The Solution: eTracking Technology To combat this issue, the Gambia Revenue Authority (GRA) partnered with Nick TC-Scan (Gambia) Ltd to introduce an innovative eTracking system. This cutting-edge technology allows for the real-time monitoring and tracking of trucks as they move through the country. Here’s how it works: Tracker Installation: When a truck arrives at the Gambian border, a tracking device is installed on the vehicle. This tracker remains active until the truck crosses into Senegal. 24/7 Monitoring: The GRA operates a round-the-clock monitoring room at its headquarters in Banjul. The system sends real-time data to this control center, ensuring that all trucks are on their designated routes. Alerts and Enforcement: If a truck driver attempts to deviate from the approved route, the system immediately sends an alert to the monitoring room. This allows the GRA to respond quickly, track the truck, and ensure that the appropriate customs duties are paid. This system has been a game-changer in ensuring that goods entering the Gambia are properly documented and that the government receives the revenue it is owed. It has also significantly reduced the opportunity for corruption, as the digital nature of the system leaves little room for manipulation. The Resistance: Senegalese Transport Union’s Objections Despite the clear benefits of the eTracking system, it has not been without its challenges. Recently, the Senegalese Transport Union has expressed strong opposition to the use of these tracking devices. They have requested that the Gambian authorities cease tracking their vehicles, arguing that it infringes on their autonomy. However, this situation can be likened to a scenario where a neighbor constantly loiters near your property, prompting you to install a CCTV camera for security. If the neighbor were to complain about the camera, would you really consider taking it down? The answer, of course, is no. The camera is there to protect your interests, just as the eTracking system is in place to protect the Gambia’s revenue and ensure compliance with customs laws. Why eTracking Must Continue The eTracking system is more than just a technological upgrade; it is a necessary measure to safeguard Gambia’s economic interests. Here’s why it must continue: Revenue Protection: The primary goal of eTracking is to ensure that all customs duties are paid, thereby protecting the country’s revenue stream. Fair Trade Practices: By eliminating the loopholes that allow some to evade taxes, the system ensures a level playing field for all businesses operating within the Gambia. Reduction in Corruption: The digital tracking system reduces the opportunity for customs officers to engage in corrupt practices, as their actions are now monitored and recorded. Strengthening National Security: Monitoring the movement of goods and vehicles also has broader implications for national security, helping to prevent the smuggling of illicit goods. Moving Forward with Confidence While the resistance from the Senegalese Transport Union is understandable, it is crucial to recognize that the eTracking system serves a greater good. It ensures that the Gambia can collect the revenue it is due, fosters a fair business environment, and reduces the potential for corruption. At Nick TC-Scan (Gambia) Ltd, we remain committed to supporting the GRA in its efforts to modernize customs enforcement and protect the nation’s economic interests. The future of Gambia’s trade and revenue collection depends on the continued success and expansion of this vital system.