Cameroon Customs Strengthens Research Capacity with ATAF Support

Following the success of ATAF’s Research Methodology Workshop in Pretoria, the Cameroon Customs Department (DGD) invited ATAF to deliver tailored in-country training to strengthen the institution’s research capabilities.

ATAF Officials worked with DGD officials to strengthen the skills required to undertake high-quality research that can support evidence-based customs administration and policy development.

Opening the programme, Director General of Customs, Mr Fongod Edwin Nuvaga, emphasised the importance of research in informing policy and institutional decision-making. He also expressed his ambition to see research produced by the DGD published in reputable international journals, reflecting the institution’s commitment to strengthening the quality, credibility and visibility of its research work.

The engagement built on ATAF’s broader efforts to strengthen research and analytical capacity within African tax and customs administrations. By equipping officials with stronger research skills, the programme aimed to support the production of evidence that can inform policy choices, improve institutional performance and contribute to more effective revenue administration.

The collaboration with Cameroon Customs will continue beyond the research methodology training. ATAF also announced plans to deliver a dedicated Data Analytics programme for DGD officials.

The planned programme will focus on strengthening officials’ ability to analyse data, generate actionable insights and use evidence more effectively in decision-making. These capabilities are increasingly important for customs administrations seeking to improve risk management, compliance, operational efficiency and revenue mobilisation.