Uganda, S. Sudan Launch Electronic Cargo Tracking for Enhanced Monitoring

The Uganda Revenue Authority (URA) has introduced the Electronic Cargo Tracking System (ECTS) jointly with South Sudan. This major development was announced by URA in a public notice dated Thursday, 21 November 2024.

In the public notice, URA highlighted that the South Sudan Revenue Authority (SSRA), representing the Government of the Republic of South Sudan, officially launched the ECTS on 13 November 2024. The new system aims to enhance transparency, accountability, and efficiency in monitoring cargo entering South Sudan.

The Electronic Cargo Tracking System is a regional IT solution designed to assist revenue authorities in Uganda, Kenya, Rwanda, and the Democratic Republic of Congo with the electronic tracking of transit goods. It aims to improve cargo accountability and reduce transit times.

URA also informed traders with cargo bound for South Sudan to ensure their shipments are fitted with an electronic seal by 1 December 2024. “From 1 December 2024, all cargo shipments destined for South Sudan must be fitted with an electronic seal. A sustainability fee of USD 100 will be charged per electronic seal, payable at the time of booking,” stated Asadu Kigozi Kisitu, the Acting Commissioner of Customs.

To help stakeholders familiarise themselves with the new system, URA will conduct a trial run from 15 to 30 November 2024. URA urged all parties involved in cross-border trade with South Sudan, including importers, exporters, transporters, and customs agents, to ensure full compliance with the new system from its inception.

The introduction of this electronic system is a crucial step in improving transit cargo management and enhancing the security and efficiency of supply chains in South Sudan. The Regional Electronic Cargo Tracking System (RECTS), operational since 2014, was facilitated by funding partners through TradeMark East Africa. South Sudan now joins Kenya, Rwanda (2014), and the DRC (2019) in adopting this technology.

The system uses GPS/GPRS technology to track units such as box-body trucks, tankers, or containers. The device transmits real-time data on seal status, truck location, and any violations to URA. “Once the seal is activated, the cargo is monitored from start to destination. All activities involving cargo bound for South Sudan will be recorded and reported with the location of occurrence,” added Kisitu.

With this system, cargo security is significantly enhanced. Any tampering with the seal triggers immediate alerts to the central monitoring centre via email and SMS, prompting URA to dispatch a rapid response team, even if the cargo merely deviates from the designated route.