By Mukisa Solomon and Niyonshima Joshua
The Muslim business community in in Eastern Uganda has been advised to embrace compliance to ensure growth and continuity of their businesses.
Speaking at the Salaam Baraza in Iganga, Hafsah Seguya a tax literacy expert with Uganda Revenue Authority explained that operating under the set regulations protects businesses from the consequences of non-compliance. Seguya educated Muslims in attendance on the importance of keeping proper records, business and TIN registration.
“It is essential to note that tax is only paid on profits, therefore how shall you tell that your business is moving forward without keeping track of information,” she said.
Her message was not different from that of Salaam TV’s Managing Director Kin Kariisa who cautioned the proprietors to practice proper record keeping. He further urged them to approach URA for any challenges noting that the tax body has changed its mode of operation from enforcement to engagement.
“You are either eligible or ineligible to pay tax. However, because some of us are not keeping records, we find ourselves running away from URA instead of allowing them to guide us on what to do. We are past the days of running away when you see tax collectors, what we have to do is to listen to them and do what is necessary,” said Kariisa.
The Salam Community Baraza is an initiative of Next Media Services geared at empowering the Muslim community with knowledge and skills in different spheres.
URA has partnered with the program to educate Muslims on their tax obligations and similar sessions have so far been conducted in the districts of Mpigi, Iganga, Kamuli and Ntugamo.
