TRA Commissioner Yusuph Mwenda Vows Tax Reforms Despite Business Grievances

By Adonis Byemelwa

Tanzania Revenue Authority (TRA) Commissioner General Yusuph Mwenda, has pledged cooperation with private sector leaders to enhance customer service, address officials tarnishing TRA's image, expand the tax base, and ensure sustainable taxation.

He emphasized that his appointment will maintain continuity with previous initiatives while introducing new improvements. Appointed by President Samia Suluhu Hassan on July 1, 2024, replacing Alphayo Kidata, Mwenda previously served as Commissioner General of the Zanzibar Revenue Authority (ZRA).

Today, Thursday, July 18, 2024, Mwenda convened his first meeting with his office team and private sector leaders, organized by the Tanzania Private Sector Foundation (TPSF) in Dar es Salaam.

This meeting follows recent strikes in Kariakoo, Dar es Salaam, and other regions including Dodoma, Kigoma, Mbeya, Mwanza, Iringa, and Morogoro, partly fueled by tax issues and TRA enforcement activities.

Mwenda highlighted plans to strengthen cooperation and improve customer service, stating, "As the head of this institution, I will enhance collaboration between TRA and all business stakeholders under their associations."

 He emphasized improving service delivery to reduce complaints and affirmed, "I aim for quarterly feedback sessions to review our progress in enhancing business operations within the country."

Regarding disciplinary measures, Mwenda assured that TRA will address staff tarnishing its reputation, asserting, "We will provide continuous training to ensure professionalism among our skilled workforce." He also pledged to enforce tax laws rigorously when necessary for revenue decisions.

Mwenda addressed concerns about expanding the taxpayer base, promising to collaborate with the private sector on solutions, stating, "Together, we will explore ways to increase taxpayers to alleviate the current tax burden." He cautioned against tax evasion and counterfeit goods, urging compliance with regulations.

Mwenda emphasized the need for a collaborative approach with businesses to streamline economic activities, stating, "Effective tax management is not just about collection but also overseeing economic operations." He expressed readiness to collaborate with the Ministry of Finance to propose improvements to the tax system.

In Tanzania, the management of revenue collection and expenditure plays a pivotal role in the country's fiscal governance, as evidenced by reports from the Controller and Auditor General. These reports serve as critical assessments of financial efficiency and transparency across government sectors.

 Effective revenue collection not only funds essential services like healthcare, education, infrastructure, and social welfare but also drives economic development initiatives aimed at poverty reduction and overall prosperity.

However, challenges persist, including issues related to tax compliance, the efficiency of revenue collection processes, and the responsible allocation of public funds. Balancing revenue generation with prudent expenditure is crucial for sustainable economic growth and stability.

The recent traders' strike in areas such as Kariakoo, Dodoma, Kigoma, and Mwanza underscores the significance of fair tax policies and effective enforcement.  Grievances over perceived high tax burdens and enforcement practices have disrupted business activities, highlighting the need for dialogue and policy adjustments.

 Addressing these concerns is vital to creating a supportive business environment and ensuring equitable tax practices that benefit both government revenue objectives and private sector development.