Sheriff Musa Sheriff
Mr. Yankuba Darboe, Commissioner General Gambia Revenue Authority (GRA) has disclosed that currently the Authority is currently in the process of replacing the current Domestic Tax system GAMTAXNET with a more robust web base system called the Integrated Tax Management System (ITAS).
He added that this is earmarked to facilitate online payment and filing of Tax returns and significantly reduce the burden on taxpayers in the process of paying their taxes.
He made this disclosure at the tax seminar with the Gambia Youth Chamber of Commerce funded by the – project “Support to Strengthen Capacities of National Institutions Responsible for Economic Management and evidence-based policy, planning and Budgeting to achieve inclusive growth and poverty reduction in the Gambia.”
He pointed out that the important tax seminar is part of activities under Goal 2 of the GRA Corporate Strategic Plan 2020 -2024: Optimize client service delivery for improved customer relations and corporate image.
The seminar centered on the Gambian Tax Policies, the accompanying Revenue Laws, and Taxpayer’s Rights and Obligations and highlights the reform initiatives being implemented by the GRA.
He further disclosed that the Authorities, along with other stakeholders will soon implement the Single Window Platform that integrates all agencies involved in The Gambia’s International trade ecosystem to enhance efficiency in the clearance of goods.
“With the above reform initiatives, it is crucial that our stakeholders and the citizens, in general, are well informed and sensitised on these reforms programmes,” he said.
He stated that the engagement will enhance participants’ understanding of GRA’s mandate and its operations, the significance of Tax Revenue in national development, and other Tax administrative matters in general.
According to CG Darboe, the project also funded other engagement forums with other youth groups like MSMEs through the Gambia Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI) as well as key tertiary Institutions in a series of programs to enhance their understanding of Revenue Management and administration.
He also disclosed that the Authority launched the Automated Customs Data (ASYCUDA World) in June 2022, “since its implementation, the system has significantly increased the Authority’s monthly revenue collection.”
He noted GRA recognised and appreciated the budget support it continues to receive from the EMP Project, while he commended the Ministry of Finance of The Gambia, for the support and cooperation in strengthening the Authority Taxpayer Education Programs the reforms programmes, aimed towards achieving GRA main goal of optimum revenue Mobilization.