URA Commissioner General John Musinguzi has revealed that the tax body plans to conduct thorough education of taxpayers

Kampala, July 17, 202

URA Commissioner General John Musinguzi has revealed that the tax body plans to conduct thorough education of taxpayers to change their negative perceptions towards paying taxes.

Musinguzi, who appeared on the “Arise and Shine program” on Channel 44 this morning, highlighted radio programs and taxpayer sensitization as some of the avenues they will implement to ensure Ugandans understand what taxes they are required to pay.

“The only way to develop our country is through paying taxes, and our taxes are based on voluntary compliance,” Musinguzi stated.

The taxman added that URA will also continue leveraging technologies to ensure transparency and efficiency.

On EFRIS, he clarified that its implementation started with manufacturers before onboarding supermarkets and VAT-qualifying traders like those in the Kikuubo business hub.

“This has come with hostility due to the fear of cultural change; however, we have seen a constant improvement every time we go out to sensitize, and soon they will embrace the technology,” Musinguzi added.

He, however, urged taxpayers to embrace EFRIS reiterating that the system will mitigate shortcomings like over-assessing and make the refund process easier.

URA recently opened a taxpayer support center in Kikuubo. Musinguzi said this is aimed at bringing services closer to taxpayers and supporting them better.

“This has started with one in Kikuubo, and it will be extending to different areas like Mbale, Mbarara, and many more,” he further revealed.

Musinguzi urged traders to utilize the facility instead of working with unprofessional tax agents who mess up their accounts.

During the show, Kyeyune Moses, a Kampala-based trader, asked URA to closely work with the local government and KCCA during tax collection to avoid frustrating taxpayers. Kyeyune pointed out that sometimes all these entities approach taxpayers on a single day at different intervals.

Musinguzi responded by revealing that URA is working on harmonizing technology to alleviate this.

*By Irene Kabakama, MMU/PCA*