CAVALLA BORDER, Maryland County — The Liberia Revenue Authority (LRA) says significant improvements have been made in customs operations at the Cavalla Border and other border points in Maryland County, following increased logistical support from its central office.
By Peter P. Toe, Jr.
The Maryland County Head of Customs at the LRA, Alexwyn S. Korkollie Sr., said the improvements include enhanced mobility, communication, electricity, internet connectivity and infrastructure aimed at strengthening customs operations along Liberia’s border with Côte d’Ivoire.
Korkollie made the disclosure on Tuesday, August 11 during an interview at the Customs office at the Cavalla Border.
According to him, the LRA’s central office has provided the Maryland Customs team with a vehicle, 14 walkie-talkies, a large consignment of solar panels and Star-link internet equipment to improve communication and coordination among personnel stationed at various border points.
“Our authorities are doing extremely well. They are supporting us logistically to ensure that everything relating to customs is straightforward,” Korkollie said.
He noted that the provision of a vehicle has significantly improved the mobility of customs officials, allowing them to travel between different border points more efficiently.
Korkollie recalled that customs officials previously faced transportation challenges, making it difficult to effectively monitor activities at border locations.
“Our predecessors didn’t have a vehicle, but today we have a vehicle. At least, we are able to go from one border to another border,” he said.
He also highlighted the provision of 14 walkie-talkies, which he said has strengthened communication among customs personnel, particularly because Liberian mobile networks are not readily available in some border areas.
“They gave us walkie-talkies to communicate with our various personnel at the various border points since we cannot use the Ivorian network,” Korkollie explained.
The Maryland Customs chief further said the installation of solar systems has provided a more reliable source of electricity at the border points, supporting customs operations and lighting for personnel and joint security officers around the clock.
“We have a solar system for 24-hour electricity, which is helping with light at all the points and the joint security,” he stated.
Korkollie also cited the installation of Star-link internet as another major improvement, saying the service has enhanced communication between border officials and the LRA’s central office.
“Instead of relying on the Ivorian network, our people have installed Starlink. They have made our work so easier. We are monitored from central, and we too monitor every point,” he stated.
The Customs head said the combined logistical and technological support has made it easier for authorities to coordinate activities and maintain oversight of operations at the various border points.
Meanwhile, reporters, who visited the Cavalla Border, observed visible improvements to the area, including upgraded infrastructure and the installation of a signboard that makes the Customs facility more identifiable to travelers and other border users.
