5th – 7th November 2025.
The 42nd Regional Steering Group (RSG) Meeting is currently under way, hosted by the Eswatini Revenue Service (ERS) in Mbabane, Eswatini.
Opening remarks delivered are highlighted as follows:
Mrs Pearl Muir-Dlamini, Head of Domestic Revenue, on behalf of Mr. Brightwell S. Nkambule, Commissioner General, Eswatini Revenue Service, welcomed all delegates to Mbabane and expressed pride in the Government of Eswatini through the Eswatini Revenue Service (ERS) hosting the region, pointing out that ERS was excited to host the region for the first time since its establishment as a semi-autonomous government agency in 2011. She assured the RSG of Eswatini’s unwavering commitment to the Eastern and Southern Africa (ESA) region, affirming that Eswatini remains steadfast in its dedication to the collective goals and initiatives of the ESA region. She pointed out that the RSG provides an opportunity for members to consider the regional strategy work plan for the years 2025 – 2028, noting that it is important for the region to maintain alignment of focus areas with the broader goals of the WCO, and to put in place policies that will create resilient administrations.
Mr. Coffet Lebepe, Vice Chair’s representative and Chairperson of the RSG Meeting (South Africa), conveyed the appreciation of the ESA Vice-Chair, and the entire leadership of the South Africa Revenue Service (SARS) to the Government of Eswatini for agreeing to host the region. He highlighted the milestones achieved by the region, including the adoption of the new regional strategy 2025-28 which aligns its objectives to the global WCO and the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA). He pointed out that the strategy emphasizes key priorities such as trade facilitation, effective administration for resource mobilization, and the protection of society and environment. He further highlighted the critical role of capacity building, commending the ROCB for its continued efforts in supporting Member administrations and regional partners.
Mr. Motohiro Fujimitsu, Manager for the WCO/JICA Joint Project and WCO Representative, thanked the government and people of the Kingdom of Eswatini for the hospitality accorded to the delegates and conveyed appreciation to the ROCB and Vice Chair for the invitation extended to the organization. He noted that this 42nd Meeting is being held at a very opportune time, as the WCO recently adopted its new Strategic Plan for 2025–2028 and the new capacity building paradigm and is now entering the implementation phase. He extended heartfelt appreciation to the ROCB for their continued support and commendable efforts. He also highlighted that the ESA region is regarded as a role model within the WCO, enjoying strong support from all Members, a reflection of their collective commitment and collaboration.
Mrs. Josephine Manyasi, ROCB Director, thanked the Kingdom of Eswatini for hosting the back-to-back regional meetings and for the hospitality accorded to the delegates. She acknowledged the Vice-Chair (South Africa), ESA Region Members, the WCO, and all development partners for their ongoing collaboration and commitment to regional goals. She reiterated the ROCB’s commitment to deliver capacity building activities within the region and the continued engagement with development partners towards the successful implementation of the regional strategy. She highlighted the regional strategy objectives and informed the meeting that the Regional Strategy Implementation Work Plan had been developed and will be tabled for ratification by the 42nd RSG and proposed for adoption by the 32nd Governing Council.
