The Tanzania Revenue Authority (TRA) Kariakoo Tax Region has fulfilled a pledge made by the Commissioner General, CPA (T) Yusuph Juma Mwenda, by disbursing TZS12 million to six business groups in a bid to strengthen entrepreneurship and promote tax compliance.
The financial handover, held on October 25, 2025, at the TRA Kariakoo offices in Dar es Salaam, marked the implementation of a promise made by the Commissioner General during the launch of the Business Facilitation Desk on September 27, 2025.
The beneficiary groups include the Ilala Women’s Platform, Kariakoo Street Vendors Association, Machinga Complex Association, Umoja Group, Dasico Group, and the Association of People with Disabilities.
Speaking during the ceremony, TRA Kariakoo Acting Regional Manager, Mr. Edson Edwin Issanya, said the initiative was part of TRA’s ongoing efforts to practically empower small traders and entrepreneurs to grow their businesses while strengthening their tax knowledge.
“This empowerment demonstrates TRA’s commitment to walk alongside business operators in growing their ventures sustainably, while fostering a culture of voluntary tax compliance,” he said.
Mr. Issanya added that by supporting small business groups, TRA aims to enhance entrepreneurship, expand the tax base, and contribute to national development.
“Our goal is to ensure that traders not only succeed in business but also understand their civic responsibility to pay taxes. Empowerment and education go hand in hand,” he noted.
Representatives of the beneficiary groups commended the Commissioner General for honouring his commitment and for TRA’s continued efforts to educate them on tax compliance.
They pledged to use the funds productively to expand their businesses and inspire others to pay taxes.
“We are thankful for this support, which will help us improve our businesses and livelihoods. We promise to use the money wisely and remain compliant with tax obligations,” said a representative of the Kariakoo Street Vendors Association.
The initiative aligns with TRA’s broader vision of promoting inclusive business growth and voluntary tax compliance through partnership, education, and empowerment of small and medium-sized enterprises across the country.