The Ruvuma Regional Commissioner, Brigadier Ahmed Abbas, has urged traders across the region to cooperate with Tanzania Revenue Authority (TRA) officers conducting a door-to-door tax education campaign aimed at improving tax compliance and addressing challenges facing businesses.
Speaking during a meeting with TRA officials at his office, Brigadier Abbas said the exercise provides an important opportunity for traders to receive tax education and openly explain the obstacles affecting their businesses so that appropriate solutions can be found.
The TRA delegation, led by Regional Manager Nicodemas Mwakileme, visited the Regional Commissioner to brief him on the ongoing campaign being implemented in different districts across the region.
Brigadier Abbas also warned residents against engaging in smuggling activities, saying the illegal trade deprives the government of crucial revenue needed to fund public services and development projects, including roads, health facilities and other social infrastructure.
He said strengthening tax compliance and eliminating smuggling would help increase government revenue collection and contribute to the country’s economic growth.
Speaking during the meeting, Senior Tax Officer Salim Bakari, who is leading the campaign team, said the two-week exercise is being conducted in Songea, Nyasa, Mbinga and Tunduru districts.
According to Bakari, the campaign is designed to educate traders and border communities on tax matters, while also raising awareness about the harmful effects of smuggling and the correct procedures for importing and exporting goods legally.
Meanwhile, Acting Chairperson of the Ruvuma Regional Business Community, Alhaji Issa Mzee, praised TRA for introducing the initiative, saying it gives traders a platform to present their concerns and seek solutions directly from tax officials.
He encouraged business people to cooperate fully with TRA officers and fulfil their tax obligations on time to support the implementation of development projects across the country.
One of the traders reached during the campaign, Ms Olita, said the education had helped her understand the importance of using Electronic Fiscal Device (EFD) machines to maintain accurate sales records and improve business management.
