Over 4000 regional clearing agents trained on efficiency

Over 4000 clearing and forwarding agents have received training in clearing and forwarding to match with the growing trade in the East African Community.

The training is part of the  $2.1m program funded by Trade Mark East Africa (TMEA) and implemented by the East Africa regional freight forwarding Association  (FEAFFA) in conjunction with the East Africa Revenue Authorities (EARA).

TMEA's chief executive officer, Frank Matsaert said the training program was aimed at addressing the skills gap among freight forwarders and clearing agents in the region.

He explained that the training was based on a survey by TMEA that found out that freight forwarders and clearing agents lacked the necessary skills and capacity in clearing cargo at the border points resulting into delays, increase in cargo clearance costs and cargo release times.

"The training could save companies up to 385 dollars in savings as the same amount of money could have been spent in fines by companies whose agents commit errors in the process of clearing," said Matsaert.

He added that through training key people in freight forwarding businesses, there will be increased trade transactions.

"Where you see trade grow you see prosperity take root. By training the key people in the freight forwarding business, we are helping move goods quicker, save time and money and help the region develop" added Matseart.

According to him, the efficient flow of international trade relies on a range of skilled service providers working together, clearing and forwarding agents.

Since 2011, 90 per cent of the targeted freight forwarders and clearing agents have been trained in the five East African countries.

Kenya recorded the highest number with 1665 graduate students while Tanzania recorded 1218 graduates. Uganda and Rwanda had 717 and 299 graduates respectively while Burundi had 164 graduates.

 "With more than 40% of business costs accruing to transport and logistics, there is increasing appreciation of the importance of the sector in international trade," said the Federation's Regional Executive Director, John Mathenge.