KRA Commissioner General urges African countries to modernise tax collections

Source: Capital FM Kenya
Author: Bruhan Makong, Irene Mwangi, Phidel Kizito, Wangechi Purity, Ken Muthomi

NAIROBI, May 29(Xinhua) -- KRA Commissioner General Humphrey Wattanga on Wednesday urged African countries to modernise their tax administrations and revenue collections despite governance deficits and illicit financial flows.

The KRA boss spoke while attending a meeting that brought together tax experts to discuss strategies for enhancing domestic revenue mobilisation through effective tax measures in Africa.

The three-day 9th Africa Tax Symposium 2024 brought together over 200 delegates, including African tax administrators and development partners, to address critical tax issues such as revenues from cross-border trade.

"Embracing technologies like data analytics, and blockchain can improve tax administration operations, compliance, and service delivery. Digitizing tax systems can streamline processes and enhance taxpayer services," Wattanga said.

He also called on African tax administrations to protect taxpayer rights, uphold integrity, fairness, and accountability while serving them, and provide access to effective dispute-resolution mechanisms.

Emily Muyaa, chief of capacity development unit at the UN Department of Economic and Social Affairs-Financing for Sustainable Development Office (UNDESA-FSDO), urged African tax administrations to implement effective reforms to address revenue losses and create a fair competitive environment for domestic businesses.

Mary Baine, deputy executive secretary and head of strategy, planning and international cooperation at African Tax Administration Forum (ATAF), said that enhancing regional collaboration and harmonizing tax policies is crucial for Africa's tax future, noting that Africa's voice is becoming more significant in international tax policy debates.

Baine urged African countries to prioritize their interests and priorities on a global scale, advocate for fair and equitable tax systems, combat tax evasion, and promote global tax cooperation.