By Derrick Emmanuel Walumbe
Uganda Revenue Authority (URA) recently conducted a workshop in Kampala aimed at enhancing tax awareness and compliance among mobile phone importers and sellers.
Over 150 taxpayers from the G3 arcades, comprising Gazaland, Galilayah, and Grand Corner, attended the event held at Mambo Restaurant.
The workshop provided a platform for participants to engage with URA, clarify tax-related queries, and gain insights into the tax laws and regulations governing their businesses.
The URA Tax Education team emphasized the importance of registering for Tax Identification Numbers (TINs), filing tax returns, and paying taxes promptly. They also highlighted the benefits of tax compliance, including access to tax clearance certificates, reduced penalties, and improved business reputation.
Muwonge Joshua a tax education expert reiterated URA’s commitment to supporting taxpayers in meeting their tax obligations.
“We are dedicated to providing education and support to taxpayers, ensuring they understand their tax responsibilities and benefits,” he affirmed. “This workshop is part of our ongoing efforts to promote voluntary tax compliance and enhance revenue collection within the Central Business District (CBD).”
Muwonge added that the sector-based tax education approach has been instrumental in addressing specific challenges hindering tax compliance.
He observed that taxpayers in the same sector face similar challenges, highlighting the need for a sector-specific approach.
Additionally, Muwonge Joshua stated that the URA Tax Education Division is working to transform the public’s perception of URA by creating awareness and educating taxpayers about their tax obligations and rights.
This effort aims to dispel the negativity surrounding tax payments and URA as a whole, following the self-assessment regime.
Emmanuel Okirior a domestic taxes officer provided an in-depth explanation of the need to adopt the self-assessment regime.
He stressed the importance of maintaining proper books of records, emphasizing that this is the only way taxpayers can ensure fair tax payments. Without proper records, taxes can become a permanent burden.
The engagement marked a significant step towards fostering a culture of tax compliance among phone dealers, one of the most smuggled items in Uganda.
