MASERU - Customs officials should be commended for contributing towards the development and growth of the economy of any country, the Commissioner General of the Lesotho Revenue Authority (LRA), Thabo Khasipe has said.

Mr Khasipe made these remarks during the commemoration of the International Customs Day held in Maseru on Friday.
The theme for this year's celebration is “Customs fostering sustainability for people, prosperity and the planet”.
Mr Khasipe said Lesotho took a bold step in piloting Coordinated Border Management, adding that the initiative qualifies to be showcased as Lesotho is the first country in the African continent to implement it.
He reminded the Customs workers that the way they conduct themselves at their workplaces directly affects business between Lesotho and the world.

He, therefore, urged them to dedicate their selves to their work for the benefit of Lesotho and Basotho.
He said they must always prevent delays at the border posts as they may lead to a loss of business, adding that this will in turn affect business in Lesotho.
Speaking at the same occasion, 'Matlotliso Thelejane from the Ministry of Home Affairs said at first they could not understand Lesotho Border Management Services (LBMS).

She, however, showed that they now appreciate the system as they share duties, hence provide improved services to Basotho.