By Kamugisha Kabahweza Allan
The Uganda Revenue Authority is celebrated19 years of Taxpayers Appreciation Day, a tradition that recognizes and rewards compliant taxpayers for their invaluable contributions to the country’s revenue growth. This year’s celebration was themed “Honoring Pillars of National Growth to emphasize the great contribution of taxpayers in an effort of developing Uganda.
At the engagement, the Minister for Finance Planning and Economic Development, Hon. Matia Kasaija asked traders to approach government for low-interest loans to boost their businesses.
Speaking at the Uganda Revenue Authority’s Taxpayers Appreciation Awards Day on Wednesday, Kasaija assured business owners that the government is ready to support them access low-interest funding.
“We have different schemes from our banks. If your business is constraining you, come to my office. I will show you where you can get some money at a fairly low price,” the Minister said.
He appreciated taxpayers for paying taxes. “You have pushed us at a level which I am very proud of and the economy is moving.”
Kasaija also used the occasion to call out the corrupt.
“There are people who are stealing our money, but I can assure you, we shall defeat them,” he declared.
In his address, URA Commissioner General, John Musinguzi appreciated taxpayers noting that their steadfast compliance has allowed Uganda to rise from global economic shocks.
He explained that their contributions have aided government in building infrastructure that connects people, businesses, opportunities and provision of security, peace and stability.
“Taxes are not merely a financial contribution. But an investment into our collective aspirations. They fund the education of our children, ensure quality health care of our communities and they build the infrastructure,” he said.
Musinguzi added that taxes drive innovation and job creation, thus enabling a broad spectrum of essential services that underpin national progress and transformation.
He emphasised the need for a collective effort to drive Uganda towards economic independence and self-resilience.
There were four kinds of awards; – Excel, Vintage, CG’s and Platinum.
The Excel Awards
1- UMEME Ltd
2- Tororo Cement Ltd
3- American Tower Corporation (ATC)
The Vintage Awards
1- Ms. Rugasira Judy
2- Participatory Ecological Land Use Management
3- Mr. Thakkar Sameer
4- East African Chains Uganda Ltd
5- Mothers to Mothers Uganda
6- Mr. Kalondo Moses
7- Multiline International Ltd
8- Mrs. Anna de Boer Santa
9- One World Health Ltd
10- Mr. Jingo Selestin
11- Pag Mission Health Unit
12- Mr. Kinyera Henry
13- Angal St. Luke Hospital
14- Mr. Otim James
15- Taibah International School
16- Fairway Hotel Ltd
The Commissioner General’s Awards
1- Uganda Police Force
2- Federation of East African Freight Forwarders Association
3- New Vision Group
4- Mr. Abbey Mukiibi
The Platinum Awards
1- Uganda Manufacturers Association (UMA)
2- Uganda Bankers Association (UBA)
