The Tanzania Revenue Authority (TRA) has moved to support traders in Tanga whose businesses were destroyed in a fire, promising to engage them on possible tax relief as they work to rebuild their livelihoods.
The fire, which broke out on the night of August 14, 2026, along Barabara ya 12 in Tanga City, destroyed 12 shops and left several traders counting losses after their goods and business premises were reduced to ashes.
TRA Tanga Regional Manager CPA Castro John said the authority visited the affected traders not only to express condolences but also to demonstrate solidarity with business owners facing a difficult period.
“We have been touched by this fire incident. Many of the traders have lost almost everything. We have come to offer our condolences, show solidarity and provide a small amount of financial support to help them make a start,” CPA John said.
He said traders remain important partners in the country's tax system and that TRA's role extends beyond collecting revenue to supporting a healthy and sustainable business environment.
“When traders face challenges of this nature, we have a responsibility to stand with them. We will invite them to our offices so that we can discuss their situation and see how we can help provide relief, including on tax matters,” he said.
The move could provide some relief to the affected traders as they begin the difficult process of restarting businesses and replacing property lost in the fire.
Tanga Regional Traders Association Secretary Ismail Masoud commended TRA management and the Commissioner General for responding to the traders’ plight, describing the gesture as a demonstration of partnership between the tax authority and the business community.
He also urged traders across Tanga Region to continue paying taxes, noting that tax revenues help finance public services and government programmes, including interventions that support communities during difficult times.
The affected traders thanked TRA for visiting them and providing assistance, saying the gesture had given them encouragement as they faced the financial consequences of losing their businesses and property.
For the traders, the immediate priority is rebuilding their businesses. The planned engagement with TRA could also help them understand available options as they seek to resume operations while meeting their tax obligations.
The incident has renewed attention on the vulnerability of small businesses to disasters and the need for stronger measures to protect traders, their investments and livelihoods.
