Discussions about AI integration in Burkina Faso's customs sector unfold as the country engages in negotiations with Webb Fontaine.
In a bid to modernise and streamline customs and trade procedures, Burkina Faso has implemented an advanced digital solution for customs management by Webb Fontaine. This move aligns with regional initiatives, such as those promoted by ECOWAS, to facilitate trade within West Africa.
The technology, which employs artificial intelligence (AI) and offers thorough training for customs officials, has already shown success in increasing customs revenues and improving operational efficiency in multiple countries. Webb Fontaine, a global company with operations in over 22 countries, including several in West Africa, collaborates closely with customs authorities to digitize and optimize customs workflows, thereby supporting revenue protection and facilitating trade.
The implementation of Webb Fontaine's solution in Burkina Faso was discussed in a meeting held on July 21, 2025, between Dr. Aminata Zerbo/Sabane, Burkina Faso's Minister of Digital Transition, Postal and Electronic Communications, and a delegation from Webb Fontaine. Led by its General Manager, Alioune Ciss, the delegation presented an innovative digital solution aimed at optimising customs management, with a focus on improving security and increasing customs revenues.
Minister Zerbo/Sabane expressed keen interest in the digital solution proposed by Webb Fontaine and encouraged collaboration between Webb Fontaine and teams from the Customs department and the Ministry of Finance. This meeting signifies Burkina Faso's proactive approach towards utilising advanced digital tools for improved revenue collection and enhanced security.
Webb Fontaine's technology is designed to enhance existing customs systems like SYDONIA and SYLVIE. By enabling real-time risk assessment and enforcing compliance, the solution contributes to national security by strengthening border controls and reducing illicit trade. The impact on national revenue collection and security includes improved efficiency in customs clearance, reduction of fraud and smuggling, and increased revenue capture due to better control and monitoring of imports and exports.
In West Africa, Webb Fontaine is present in countries such as Benin, Côte d'Ivoire, Guinea, and Niger. The company's global presence and successful track record in enhancing customs operations make it a valuable partner for countries seeking to modernise and streamline their customs processes.
Regional trends suggest positive impacts aligned with trade facilitation and customs modernization initiatives led by Webb Fontaine and ECOWAS. However, there is no direct detailed public data from the search results about quantifiable revenue increases or specific security metrics post-implementation in Burkina Faso. Nonetheless, the adoption of Webb Fontaine's solution marks an important step towards digitizing and modernizing customs and trade procedures in Burkina Faso and the broader West African region.
The digital solution proposed by Webb Fontaine, which incorporates artificial intelligence (AI) and boosts customs officials' training, has a twofold purpose: enhancing security and boosting customs revenues. At a meeting on July 21, 2025, Minister Zerbo/Sabane of Burkina Faso welcomed the innovative technology, as it aims to optimize customs management and supports revenue protection, being a crucial step towards digitizing customs processes.
