With over three decades of dedicated service in customs and logistics, Charles Mwebembezi stands as a pivotal figure in East Africa’s freight forwarding sector. His journey, which began in 1988 as a Personnel Officer in Uganda’s Ministry of Public Service and Cabinet Affairs, has seen him rise to the helm of regional freight forwarding, now serving as the President of the Federation of East African Freight Forwarders Association (FEAFFA).
As Africa Global Logistics (AGL)’s Customs Relations Manager formerly Bollore Transport & Logistics, Mwebembezi has been instrumental in streamlining customs relations. This role leverages his deep understanding of customs operations, which he developed during his tenure at Panalpina/Interfreight and the Uganda Revenue Authority.
As a Senior Revenue Officer, Mwebembezi played a critical role in revenue collection and customs enforcement, gaining firsthand experience in the intricacies of Uganda’s customs landscape.
Mwebembezi’s educational journey began with a Bachelor of Arts (Hons) in Social Works and Social Administration from Makerere University Kampala (1983-1986), providing him with a robust foundation in public administration and social policy. His commitment to continuous learning is evident through his acquisition of the East African Community Customs Freight Forwarding Practicing Certificate in 2015.
Mwebembezi’s leadership roles have significantly impacted the freight-forwarding community. He has been the chairman of the Uganda Freight Forwarder Association (2022 – Present), Vice Chairman, the Uganda Freight Forwarder Association (2016 – 2022), Board Member & Head of the Customs Sub Committee of Uganda Freight Forwarders Association (2010 – 2016) and Member, Presidential Investors Round Table (PIRT) (2019 – Present)
In these roles, Mwebembezi has been a staunch advocate for regulatory reforms, contributing to the review of the East African Customs Management Act and the implementation of innovative customs solutions such as One Stop Border Stations and the Electronic Cargo Tracking System.
Mwebembezi has spearheaded several transformative projects, including the design and rollout of the Authorized Economic Operator program, the setup of the Single Customs Territory, and contributions to the World Bank’s Doing Business report. His participation in corporate governance courses and various leadership and management trainings underscore his commitment to professional excellence.
As the newly elected President of FEAFFA, Mwebembezi aims to foster greater integration and efficiency in East Africa’s freight forwarding industry. His leadership is expected to drive the adoption of cutting-edge logistics solutions and bolster the region’s competitiveness in global trade.
Charles Mwebembezi’s story is a testament to his enduring commitment to enhancing customs and logistics operations, not just in Uganda but across the East African region. His strategic vision and leadership continue to shape the future of the freight forwarding industry.
His work is well cut out.
“I stand before you today with immense honour and humility as the newly elected President of the Federation of East African Freight Forwarders Association (FEAFFA). This is a significant milestone not only for me personally but also for our esteemed Association and the entire freight logistics industry,” Mwebembezi said.
“Our pride in being part of this Federation is immense, as we have shared a rich history of collaboration and mutual growth. Together, we have implemented numerous joint programs that have immensely benefited our members and the industry at large. These include initiatives like the RAME Convention, the Global Logistics Convention, Regional Industry Meetings, and particularly the capacity-building programs such as the East African Customs and Freight Forwarding Practicing Certificate (EACFFPC) and Continuing Professional Development (CPDs),’ added he.
He expressed his gratitude to the outgoing President and all previous leaders for laying a robust foundation upon which FEAFFA stands today.
“As the current Chairman of UFFA and a co-opted member of the FEAFFA board for the past two years, I am well-acquainted with the Federation’s initiatives. Mr. President, I assure you that I will carry forward your legacy, with your guidance as our chief advisor to me and the entire board,” Mwebembezi’
The new president has identified his main areas of focus. One of FEAFFA’s core purposes is to address the policy and operational issues that affect the industry. His focus will be on enhancing FEAFFA’s advocacy function by activating the advocacy committee and supporting it with adequate personnel within FEAFFA resources. He will also strengthen FEAFFA relationships with key stakeholders such as customs and the East African Community (EAC).
FEAFFA has excelled in promoting professionalism within the industry. His goal is to further this by advocating for self-regulation, reviving the establishment and operationalization of a registration board for freight forwarders, enhancing the CPD program, and expanding the regional diploma program to more countries. These efforts are crucial for our financial sustainability, especially given the current donor environment.
He will also focus on finalizing the review of the 2021 constitution to resolve issues that have threatened industry harmony. Additionally, FEAFFA will adopt a strategic approach to admitting other associations into the Federation, enhancing the legitimacy of FEAFFA as the regional umbrella representative in the EAC, and strengthening the Federation’s organs, particularly the secretariat and board.
Addressing the financial challenges is critical. Together, FEAFFA will work on increasing internally generated revenue through effective implementation of training programs and membership fee policies, while also identifying potential new revenue streams. Mechanisms will be put in place to ensure all potential revenue is collected to sustain the Federation.
“Our tradition of regional brotherliness is one we cherish. I am committed to maintaining this spirit by supporting each other across the region. With Tanzania hosting the FIATA RAME in April-May 2025 in Zanzibar, and Burundi hosting our Global Logistics Convention (GLC) in August, we will provide all necessary support to ensure these events are successful,” Mwebembezi said.
Charles Mwebembezi takes over from Philippe Ndikumana from Burundi, who served FEAFFA as the president since 2022.
This article was published by the editorial team at FEAFFA. For any enquiries, contact us via Email: editorial@feaffa.com/ freightlogistics@feaffa.com / onionga@feaffa.com Tel: +254733780240
