If you had to ask any African country how it would go about improving its trade processes, top of the list would probably be improving how goods move across its borders. However, achieving efficient trade flows, smoothly running customs processes, and increased revenues is easier said than done. This is where a technology partner that’s well-versed in Africa’s trade challenges is invaluable.
With a comprehensive model built on an in-depth understanding of each country’s unique challenges and opportunities alike, Webb Fontaine is transforming Africa’s trade landscape, one country at a time.
Turning Guinea’s potential into opportunities
The West African country of Guinea, for instance, with its rich bauxite, gold, and diamond resources, has the potential to be a significant player on the world stage. With exports reported at over USD18 billion, and direct port access to Atlantic trade routes, there is plenty of scope for growth. And working in Guinea’s favour is that it has a long-standing relationship with a partner that shares its vision: Webb Fontaine.
This growth is already being realised through the introduction of Webb Fontaine’s Webb Transit Tracking. This innovative technology marks a groundbreaking advancement in the digital transformation of the nation’s logistics ecosystem, revolutionising customs practices and enhancing transit escort operations.
Partnerships that align with national development imperatives
The successful implementation of the system also demonstrates the importance of partnerships, as well as aligning with the government’s digital and economic goals. The result of concerted efforts by several stakeholders within the customs and port community, Webb Transit Tracking represents a critical step towards the modernisation of the State’s revenue and expenditure systems, as outlined by President Mamadi Doumbouya, and under the guidance of the Director General of the Single Window for Foreign Trade (GUCEG).
This drive towards modernisation has also seen the implementation of several other Webb Fontaine solutions in Guinea, including the Webb Single Window, Webb Ports, and Paylican. These systems are specifically designed to tackle the unique challenges faced by Guinea's trade sector.
Realising efficiencies: The numbers behind the successes
The results have been incredible. For instance, monthly customs revenues have increased by up to 40%. Foreign trade processes have transitioned from manual to fully digitalised. Licence processing time has dropped from about a week to less than 24 hours, and container clearance from two weeks to three days at most. DDI/DDE functionality alone resulted in a staggering 4,000% increase in the first six months of implementation. Additionally, the fact that 16 formerly isolated government ministries and departments are now interconnected on a single platform speaks volumes about the efficiencies that have been realised.
How has this been achieved? By taking a long-term view and turning every challenge into an opportunity. This has meant actively collaborating with organisations that share the same vision of simplified, secure, digital processes aimed at transforming trade operations in Guinea.
The outcome has been a fully transformed and digitalised trade funnel that has completely changed the landscape in Guinea. Inefficiencies have been converted into smooth-flowing processes. Risks have been minimised, and revenues have increased.
Empowering users with digital and technical skills
There’s another side to this success story, and that is empowering organisations with the skills and expertise to successfully and independently manage the solutions that have been implemented. Digital skills, especially the advanced artificial intelligence and blockchain competencies that drive Webb Fontaine’s solutions, are key. That's why the company has actively invested in equipping the next generation of software engineers through quality education and training via its Sourcemind Academy in Guinea. This ensures both longevity and sustainability of systems, while at the same time empowering individuals and communities.
Looking to the future of foreign trade efficiencies
Modernisation of customs and trade systems holds enormous potential for African countries. As trade expands and customer expectations continue to grow, technology will play an increasingly important role across all stages of the process.
Foreign trade in Guinea has been revolutionised through the introduction of bespoke solutions aimed at converting the country’s trade bottlenecks into trade breakthroughs. The wins have been exceptional, and for Guinea, there’s no looking back.