By Abdullah Rabiiba
Traders in Kamuli have called for more comprehensive tax education following the Uganda Revenue Authority’s (URA) Tax Katale campaign in the district. The outreach, which included door-to-door visits, market engagements, and a community radio discussion, provided valuable information to business owners on tax compliance.
Despite this, many traders are now requesting regular training on tax filing, documentation, and business formalization to gain a deeper understanding of the process.
Minsaki Sharif Heptin, a local shop owner, expressed his appreciation for URA’s more approachable methods, noting a shift from previous experiences.
“Previously, tax officials were too harsh, and we were afraid to raise our concerns. But this time, they’ve come with a friendly attitude that encourages learning. I now understand my tax obligations better, but I still need detailed training on filing returns and proper record-keeping,” he said.
Muwanika Charles, Chairman of the Aringa Traders’ Community, praised the initiative for addressing long-standing misconceptions.
“We had so many unanswered questions, but now we finally have professionals guiding us. More of these sessions will boost our confidence in handling complex tax matters,” he stated.
The URA tax education team in collaboration with Kamuli DT officers, visited shops, business hubs, and a local radio station to engage traders and address common concerns.
During the radio session and a village educational meeting, business owners sought clarity on tax assessments, payments, and compliance procedures.
Arepai Richard, the Station Head of Kamuli Domestic Taxes, underscored the importance of simplifying tax procedures for small businesses.
“Taxpayers must understand the tax system. Clear communication before collection helps taxpayers prepare and comply, especially in remote areas. Effective, efficient tax collection is crucial, and as tax collectors, we must support taxpayers throughout the process,” he explained.
