By Dominic Hlordzi
Ghana Link Network Services has begun its annual intensive refresher training programme on the Integrated Customs Management System (ICUMS) for various stakeholders across the country.
The ICUMS platform has revolutionised customs processes in Ghana by integrating all stakeholders involved in the customs clearance process, from shippers, Ministries, Departments and Agencies, and freight forwarders to customs officials and other regulatory bodies.
Opening the training, the Director of Operations at the Ghana Link Network Services,
Raymond Amaglo said the ICUMS is a game-changer in the way business is conducted at the ports.
He said the system has significantly reduced the time and cost of doing business while ensuring the integrity and security of goods at the country’s borders.
“We are committed to working with all stakeholders to ensure the successful implementation of the ICUMS,” Mr. Amaglo said.
He stated that Ghana Link, the operators of ICUMS is ensuring that system plays a crucial role in improving the competitiveness of Ghana’s ports and in boosting economic growth and development of the country.
He further explained that the success of the ICUMS platform is closely tied to the level of knowledge and skills that stakeholders possess, which is why the company invested so much in organizing the training programmes to ensure that everyone involved in the customs clearance process is up to date with the latest trends and technologies.
“We are delighted with the positive feedback we have received from the stakeholders who attended these training programmes. It is clear that they have found the programmes to be very beneficial and have gained a lot of valuable insights into how to use the ICUMS system more effectively,” Mr. Amaglo observed.
Participants were taken through the use of the ICUMS platform, customs procedures and regulations, as well as best practices for customs clearance processes.
Experienced trainers and industry experts from Ghana Link and technical partners, who were the resource persons shared their knowledge and experience with the participants.
Beneficiaries of the first phase of the refresher training programme which is been done in collaboration with the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA), includes the Trade Departments of all Commercial Banks, Association of Customs House Agents, Ghana (ACHAG), Customs Brokers Association of Ghana (CUBAG), Freight Forwarders Association of Ghana (FFAG), the Ghana Institute of Freight Forwarders (GIFF), the Importers & Exporters Association of Ghana (IEAG), Self-Declarants and Direct Applicants (Embassies & Foreign Missions).
The roll-out of these nationwide refresher training programmes is a testament to the commitment of Ghana Link Network Services and the Ghana Revenue Authority to ensure that the ICUMS platform continues to deliver value to stakeholders across the customs clearance process.