By Irene Kabakama
URA recently hosted a team of junior officers from the UPDF who visited to learn from the taxman’s processes.
The soldiers were tipped on, among other things, URA’s mandate, structure, and trade facilitation initiatives.
Jessie Abonyo, the Manager of Stakeholder relations, reiterated URA’s mandate, which is to collect, mobilize, and account for government taxes.
She noted that in order to improve accessibility and trade facilitation, URA has revised its structure and expanded its presence throughout the country.
“This initiative aims to make it easier for citizens to comply with tax regulations and to enhance trade facilitation,” Abonyo explained.
She noted that the restructuring is necessary due to the increasing population and the growing demand for more efficient and relevant services.
John Tinka Katungwensi, the Commissioner of the Tax Academy, lauded URA’s relationship with the Forces highlighting good partnerships with the two entities.
“NALI has facilitated capacity-building programs for staff, focusing on instilling transformational leadership, resilience, patriotism, and integrity,” he mentioned.
Robert Kalumba, the Ag. Assistant Commissioner Public and Corporate Affairs underscored the essence of the visit, saying it was an opportunity to learn from each other by sharing achievements and challenges.
“Since both of us have mandates that require serving the country, we end up doing a selfless job, which is a great way of learning from each other,” said Kalumba.
In the same spirit, Colonel Michael Ssozi Ssesanga, the deputy instructor at the staff college, said the benchmark expanded their knowledge of URA’s role in national development.
“This interaction gives us purpose for wearing a uniform and provides valuable exposure for us,” he remarked.
The junior staff course brings together officers from all branches of the UPDF, including the Air Force, Land Forces, and SFC.
