The Commissioner General of the Tanzania Revenue Authority (TRA), Mr. Yusuph Juma Mwenda, has called on Editors and Journalists in the country to actively participate in exposing tax evaders, saying such efforts would significantly contribute to strengthening the national economy.
Mr. Mwenda made the appeal during a meeting with Editors held in Dar es Salaam ahead of the TRA’s 30th anniversary celebrations and the Presidential Award for Best Taxpayer ceremony, scheduled to take place on July 1 at Mlimani City Hall in Dar es Salaam.
He also expressed gratitude to the media for their long standing cooperation with TRA throughout its 30 years of existence, noting that journalists have played a vital role in supporting public awareness and compliance in tax matters.
According to Mr. Mwenda, tax evasion continues to weaken the country’s economy and distort fair market competition. He stressed that the involvement of Editors and journalists in exposing such practices would be a major contribution to national development.
“Editors and journalists hold a powerful position in society. By helping to expose tax evaders, you are directly contributing to building a stronger and more sustainable economy,” he said.
He further noted that over the past 30 years, tax evasion methods have evolved, particularly through digital platforms. However, TRA has also advanced its systems to counter these challenges.
Mr. Mwenda highlighted that through the new Domestic Revenue Administration System (IDRAS), TRA will be able to effectively track taxpayers in collaboration with other institutions whose systems are now integrated and capable of communicating with TRA platforms.
He added that over the past three decades, TRA has made significant progress in strengthening its relationship with taxpayers, which has led to increased voluntary tax compliance and greater trust in the institution.
“This trust has contributed to improved revenue collection, which continues to finance key development projects across the country,” he said.
The Commissioner General also extended his appreciation to all taxpayers nationwide for their continued compliance and commitment, as well as to Editors for their support in educating the public on tax matters.
“As we mark 30 years of TRA, we recognize that these achievements would not have been possible without patriotic taxpayers and the cooperation of key stakeholders, including Editors and journalists,” he said.
The 30th anniversary celebrations and the Presidential Award for Best Taxpayer are expected to highlight the role of taxpayers in national development and will bring together key stakeholders from across the country.
